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 to detail in the score means that a pianist with a keen ear for phrasing and a sensitivity to musical nuances will be able to convey the piece’s beauty effectively. While not a beginner’s repertoire, “And There Were Shepherds” serves as an excellent challenge for pianists looking to expand their repertoire and refine their expressive capabilities.

Download Sheet Music PDF

PREVIEW

written by 0 comments 475 views

Christmas Sheet Music

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.

Piano Sheet Music

Coventry Carol

The “Coventry Carol” is one of the oldest known carols, dating back to the 16th century. It is traditionally sung as part of a mystery play called the “Pageant of the Shearmen and Tailors.” The play was performed in Coventry, England, and depicted the biblical story of the Massacre of the Innocents, which is found in the Gospel of Matthew. …

Organ Sheet Music

Ding Dong Merrily on High

“Ding Dong! Merrily on High” is a popular Christmas carol with French origins. The lyrics were written by English composer George Ratcliffe Woodward, and the melody is based on a 16th-century French dance tune. The title of the carol is derived from the sound of bells, which is often associated with the Christmas season.

Piano Sheet Music

Gentle Mary Laid Her Child

“Gentle Mary Laid Her Child” is a traditional Christmas carol that reflects on the peaceful and tender scene of Mary laying the infant Jesus in a manger. The lyrics often evoke a sense of serenity and devotion, capturing the essence of the Nativity. The carol’s portrayal of the intimate moments surrounding the birth of Jesus makes it a fitting addition …

Christmas Violin Sheet Music

See Amid the Winter’s Snow

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. …

Violin Sheet Music

Elgar – Christmas Greeting Op.52

“A Christmas Greeting” Op. 52 is a short and delightful composition that captures the spirit of the season. Elgar, known for his orchestral works and the famous “Pomp and Circumstance” marches, demonstrates his versatility in this enchanting piece. The composition exudes warmth and joy, making it a perfect choice for violinists aiming to spread holiday cheer through their music. While …

Piano Sheet Music

Holst – In The Bleak Midwinter

“In the Bleak Midwinter” is a Christmas carol that was written by the English poet Christina Rossetti. It was first published in 1872 as part of a collection of her poems titled “Goblin Market and Other Poems.” The poem has since been set to music by several composers, but the most famous musical setting was composed by Gustav Holst in …

Piano Sheet Music

Liszt – Lighting Candles On The Tree

“Lighting the Candles on the Tree” captures the heartwarming and joyous moment of lighting the candles on a Christmas tree. It is a beautifully evocative piece that conveys the festive atmosphere and the magical anticipation associated with the holiday season. “Lighting the Candles on the Tree” is part of Franz Liszt’s “Weihnachtsbaum” (The Christmas Tree) collection, composed in 1874. One …

Piano Sheet Music

Gounod – L’Angelus

Gounod’s “L’Angelus” captures the solemnity and reverence of the Angelus prayer through its expressive melodies and harmonies. The title is French for “The Angelus,” and the music aims to convey the spirit of this prayerful moment. “L’Angelus” is a vocal work that draws inspiration from the traditional Catholic devotion known as the Angelus, commemorating the Annunciation. The piece is typically …

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 …

Organ Sheet Music

O Little Town Of Bethlehem

“O Little Town of Bethlehem” is a popular Christmas carol that has been arranged for various instruments, including the organ. When played on the organ, it typically has a majestic and reverent sound, befitting the solemnity of the Christmas season. The organ arrangement includes rich harmonies and full chords to create a grand and atmospheric rendition of the song.

Piano Sheet Music

Tchaikovsky – Nutcracker Arabian Dance

The Arabian Dance, also known as the Coffee Dance, is part of the second act of “The Nutcracker.” Tchaikovsky masterfully incorporates Middle Eastern influences, using rich and evocative melodies to transport listeners to a world of mystery and enchantment. The piano arrangement retains the exotic charm, allowing pianists to express the nuances of the original orchestral score. Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky’s …

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

Grieg – Christmas Lullaby

The gentle melody of Grieg’s Christmas Lullaby, also known as “Vuggesang,” paints a picture of a peaceful winter night, making it a perfect addition to any pianist’s repertoire, especially during the festive period. Playing this piece on the piano not only offers a wonderful opportunity to showcase technical skills but also allows the musician to convey the warm, comforting ambiance …

Piano Sheet Music

Hymn for Christmas Day

Load More Posts