A Medieval French Carol

Description

Violin 1, Violin 2, Violin 3, Viola, Cello, Contrabass — Though not as familiar as other holiday carols, this ancient melody has an intrinsic beauty in both its shape and harmonic support. Reflecting those elements, this arrangement creates an evocative sound world.xa0 The mood is inspired by viewing the expanse of the night sky.xa0 Throughout history, we as humans are connected, in a sense, by the fact that we look up at the same pattern of stars today as those who created this ancient tune so many years ago, which suggests a point of connection over time.xa0 In this arrangement you will find a sense of wonder and awe as the melody weaves its way between consonance and dissonance. The re-imagining of this medieval carol reflects the timeless nature of the Christmas season. Students will work on sustaining long tones and tuning non-traditional chords in this choral-like setting for string orchestra. The melody flows between all the parts with short musical interludes between.