This is the favorite Christmas Medley for String Ensembles chosen by the leader of the Marine Band String section. This medley includes International Christmas titles from 5 countries.

The arrangement has often been played by performing String Ensembles of just 2 Violins with Piano. Adding a Bass to this group enhances the effect a lot. Then, completing the sound with Viola, or also Cello, creates the full sound of the arrangement.

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A full String Orchestra of professional or student players makes this setting a very popular audience pleaser on Seasonal programs. Each title used is a popular favorite in the country of its origin. Here are the titles included in this medley:

1. Carol of the Bells – France
2. Good King Wenceslas – England
3. Fum, Fum, Fum – Spain
4. O Tannenbaum (O Christmas Tree) – Germany
5. Pat-A-Pan (Willie, play your little drum) – Poland
6. Jingle Bells - American
(With a hint of “Joy to the World” hidden in the coda.)

Further settings of this medley are being created for ensembles of Mixed Woodwinds, or just Clarinets, or just Saxophones.

This is created by Bob Walters, formerly on the arranging staff of the U.S. Air Force Band in Washington.