Good King Wenceslas

Description

Soprano, Alto, Tenor, Bass, Piano — Good King Wenceslas is a Christmas carol written by John Mason Neal in 1853.xa0 Neal, an English hymn writer, incorporated the story about King Wenceslas of Bohemia, which is in the western part of the Czech Republic.xa0 The story takes place in the 10th century where Wenceslas is traveling by foot through the snow with his Page to the Feast of Saint Stephens Day (December 26th, the day after Christmas).xa0 This now famous song weds this wonderful 19th century tale with a beautiful melody from a 13th century carol.In this arrangement for SATB choirs and piano, I wanted the story to be highlighted with a different meter setting (in 5/4) while incorporating a “swing” or “jazzy” feel.xa0 As I was writing this arrangement, I could “hear” Wenceslas and his “page” going over hills and valleys in the deep snow as they walked to their destination. I tried to make it accessible to all choirs and provide a fresh version of this trek to the Feast over 1200 years ago.Sing it light and easy, and make the story come “alive!”Russell Robinson, Arranger Russ Robinson masterfully weds a wonderful 19th century tale with a beautiful melody from a 13th century carol, now in a jazzy, swing-style 5/4 meter. For SATB choirs of all abilities, sure to spice up any holiday performance.

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