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This arrangement is in 3 sections. The first and last utilize the harmonization by J.S. Bach and the Eb key of this classic Christmas hymn. This means you could add choir or congregation from a traditional hymnal to these quartets. (All except the Woodwind setting which is higher.) There are 2 settings for Strings, one following the Bach key of Eb, a second in Bb (higher) for a more useful String Ensemble sound.

The recording included here illustrates 2 versions of the middle section, particularly so the first parts in the Brass or Saxophone Quartets can play without going into a very high register. Please note, as you listen, that there are also 2 separate endings recorded. All parts include all these versions, so players can select what works best. Four versions are interchangeable allowing for mixing instrumental groups.

The music was created by Bob Walters, former member of the U.S. Air Force Band arranging staff, and writer for music groups that perform at the White House. The arrangement was written for members of the Marine, Air Force, and Army Bands in Washington for their personal use in churches and schools, and for use in their teaching studios with their students. The Brass Quartet arrangements do not provide for rests, so student groups might need to be formed as two antiphonal ensembles.

Here is the instrumentation and keys that permit matching several groups of players or using substitutions. (Note, Strings and Woodwinds can be combined at the higher key)

204216 Strings (Eb-Bb-Eb) 1Vln, 2Vln-Vla, 3Vla-Vc, 4Vc, 5D.B.
204216(B) Strings (Bb-F-Bb) (higher key)Vln, 2Vln-Vla, 3Vla-Vc, 4Vc, 5D.B.
204416 Brass (Eb-Bb-Eb) 1Tpt, 2Tpt, 3Tbn-Hrn, 4Tbn, 5Tuba-opt.D.B.
204516 Clarinets (Eb-Bb-Eb) 1Clr, 2Clr, 3Clr, 4Bs Clr, 5opt.D.B.
204616 WW Mixed (Bb-F-Bb) 1Flt-Obo, 2Obo-Flt, 3Clr, 4Bsn-Bs.Clr, 5opt.D.B.
204716 Saxophones (Eb-Bb-Eb) 1Alt-Sop, 2Alt, 3Ten, 4Bar, 5opt.D.B.