Holiday Music!

We are in the holiday season, and this provides a great opportunity for instrumentalists to learn pieces that can be used in family settings as well as holiday performances and church programs. Christmas carols range from the very simple such as “The First Noel” in first position in the key of D Major to the more complex such as “Ring Christmas Bells” and “Patapan.” First year players can learn several. In addition to “The First Noel,” “Joy to the World” and “Silent Night” can also be played in the first position in the key of D Major. “Hark the Herald” can be played in the key of G in the first position for those players who have learned how to play low second finger on the A string. In e minor (key of one sharp) is my favorite, “O Come O Come Immanuel.” Ensemble books with simple arrangements for string ensembles can be purchased. There are books for more advanced players as well. Local music stores and online companies will offer a variety. Since students may know many of the carols, they pick them up easily and really enjoy playing them!