Good King Wenceslas

Good King Wenceslas is a popular Christmas carol that tells the story of the 10th-century Duke of Bohemia, Wenceslas I, who was later canonized as a saint. The carol’s lyrics were written by John Mason Neale in 1853, and the tune is based on a 13th-century spring carol, “Tempus adest floridum” (“The time is near for flowering”).

The melody has many long, legato phrases, so smooth bow changes are essential for a clean, flowing sound. Focus on even bow distribution, especially during longer notes, to maintain a consistent tone. The carol can be played in first position, making it accessible for beginner cellists.

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Christmas Sheet Music

Piano Sheet Music

Sussex Carol

The Sussex Carol, also known as “On Christmas Night All Christians Sing,” is a traditional English Christmas carol. It is believed to have originated in the Sussex region of England, hence the name. The Sussex Carol is a popular traditional Christmas song, and it has been recorded and performed by various artists and choirs over the years. It captures the …

Flute Sheet Music

Tchaikovsky – Danse des Mirlitons

The word “mirliton” refers to a toy kazoo-like instrument made from a paper tube and waxed paper, which produces a buzzing sound. The French translation aptly captures the lighthearted and playful nature of the music and choreography in this part of Tchaikovsky’s ballet classic, The Nutcracker. The music is characterized by its high-pitched, staccato notes, which mimic the sound of mirlitons.

Piano Sheet Music

And There Were Shepherds

Composed by Arthur Foote (1853–1937), an American composer “And There Were Shepherds” is a common phrase found in the Christmas story from the Bible, specifically in the account of the birth of Jesus in the Gospel of Luke (Luke 2:8-20). This phrase is often associated with the announcement of the angel to the shepherds in the fields. Foote’s meticulous attention …

Piano Sheet Music

Far Far Away on Judea’s Plains

The traditional Christmas carol “Far, Far Away on Judea’s Plains” is often attributed to John Menzies Macfarlane, a Scottish-born Canadian composer and music educator. He lived during the 19th and 20th centuries and is known for his contributions to choral and vocal music. “Far, Far Away on Judea’s Plains” is a hymn that reflects on the nativity story and is …

Piano Sheet Music

Gade – Christmas Tree Op.36 No.2

Niels Gade, a Danish composer and conductor of the Romantic era, created the “Christmas Tree” as part of a set of piano pieces dedicated to his children. Op.36 No.2 is particularly charming, with its playful melodies and evocative harmonies that transport listeners to a winter wonderland adorned with twinkling lights and festive decorations. The piece is characterized by its joyous …

Cello Sheet Music

Angels We Have Heard on High

“Angels We Have Heard on High” is a traditional Christmas carol, originating from France. The song is best known for its “Gloria in excelsis Deo” refrain, which reflects the biblical story of angels proclaiming the birth of Jesus to shepherds. The melody, known as “Gloria”, is believed to have been written in the 18th century, while the English lyrics were …

Piano Sheet Music

We Three Kings of Orient Are

“We Three Kings of Orient Are” tells the story of the Magi’s journey to Bethlehem to witness the birth of Jesus. The melody, with its regal and mysterious undertones, perfectly captures the essence of the biblical narrative. Pianists are drawn to the piece not only for its festive appeal but also for the opportunity it provides to showcase their interpretive …

Violin Sheet Music

Schubert – Ave Maria

“Ave Maria”- D.839 Op.52 No.6 by Franz Schubert is a timeless and beautiful composition. Composed in 1825 as part of his work titled “Ellens dritter Gesang” (Ellen’s Third Song), it has since become known simply as “Ave Maria.” The lyrics are based on a German translation of Sir Walter Scott’s poem “The Lady of the Lake.” While “Ave Maria” is …

Piano Sheet Music

The Holly and The Ivy

“The Holly and the Ivy” is a traditional English Christmas carol that dates back to the 18th century, although some sources suggest that it may have even earlier origins. The song is a celebration of the holly and the ivy, two evergreen plants that are often associated with the Christmas season. “The Holly and the Ivy” is a classic Christmas …

Organ Sheet Music

Bach – Nun Komm der Heiden Heiland

“Nun komm, der Heiden Heiland, BWV 659” is a chorale prelude composed by Johann Sebastian Bach. It is part of his larger collection of organ works, particularly those that involve chorale settings. The title translates to “Now come, Savior of the Gentiles” in English. This chorale prelude is based on the hymn “Nun komm, der Heiden Heiland,” which is attributed …

Organ Sheet Music

Bach – Christmas Oratorio BWV.248

The Christmas Oratorio (Weihnachtsoratorium), BWV 248, is a magnificent choral work composed by Johann Sebastian Bach. Completed in 1734, it is a set of six cantatas intended for performance during the Christmas season. Each cantata corresponds to a specific feast day within the Christmas period. Here’s an overview of the structure and themes of Bach’s Christmas Oratorio.

Organ Sheet Music

Saint-Saens – Ave Maria in A Major

“Ave Maria” in A major is part of his larger work, the “Six Duets for Two Voices and Organ,” Op. 10. This collection includes settings of various sacred texts, and the “Ave Maria” in A major is one of the pieces within this set. These duets were composed in 1858 and showcase Saint-Saëns’s mastery of choral writing and his ability …

Piano Sheet Music

Thiel – In Dulci Jubilo

Carl Thiel (1902–1982) was a German composer and arranger known for his contributions to piano music. Thiel’s arrangements often featured a delicate balance of technical proficiency and emotional expressiveness, making them accessible to a wide range of pianists. Carl Thiel’s arrangement of “In Dulci Jubilo” for piano is a delightful and uplifting piece that brings the joy of the holiday …

Piano Sheet Music

Saint-Saens – Christmas Oratorio Op.12

Camille Saint-Saëns’ “Oratorio de Noël,” also known as his Christmas Oratorio, Op. 12, is a splendid and spiritually evocative composition. Written in 1858, this oratorio reflects Saint-Saëns’ mastery in blending sacred and festive elements. The piano rendition of Saint-Saëns’ Christmas Oratorio Op. 12 demands a pianist with an intermediate to advanced skill level. The piece presents challenges in terms of …

Piano Sheet Music

Hymn for Christmas Day

Also known as “See Amid the Winter’s Snow” is a traditional Christmas carol with lyrics written by Edward Caswall and music composed by Sir John Goss. It was first published in 1854. This carol is known for its serene and reflective lyrics that tell the story of the birth of Jesus Christ and the adoration of the shepherds and angels. …

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