Composed by Charles Wesley. Arranged by Dana F. Everson. Christmas. Sheet Music. Sacred instrumental music. Score and parts. David E. Smith #169423. Published by David E. Smith (DS.169423).
A string quartet with optional violin for viola. After a full ensemble introduction the piece gives way to a duet in the viola and cello. With the violins entering one at a time the piece now becomes full with all parts present gravitating to motivic development moving to a modulation. The next section gives the tune to the cello with the upper lines adding punctuated accompanied figures. The next section uses motivic patterns while passing portions of the tune to the various players. A modulation- then the parts become increasingly more active in a variation style. With a solid ensemble altering the melody; a brake; then, repose.
