Silent Night
by Franz Xaver Gruber
String Orchestra - Sheet Music

Orchestra String Orchestra - Grade 1.5-2

SKU: CF.FAS38

Composed by Franz Xaver Gruber. Arranged by Roy Phillippe. Carl Fischer First Plus String Orchestra Series. Sacred, Christmas. Score and Parts. With Standard notation. 8 pages. Carl Fischer Music #FAS38. Published by Carl Fischer Music (CF.FAS38).

ISBN 9780825861130. UPC: 798408061135. 8.5 X 11 inches. Key: D major.

One of the most beloved of all Christmas carols is presented in an easy, yet beautiful arrangement by Roy Phillippe. Every sections is given a chance to play the melody in the very playable setting. The optional piano part adds interest and colorful lines to this already very special piece.
I am of the opinion that a piece of music is not judged by how difficult it is to play, but by how good it sounds. While my arrangement of Silent Night is written for beginning string players, I have tried to keep it interesting for all players. It should be played warmly with expression to create a full sound.The piece begins with an introduction based on the three-note "Silent Night" motive. The main melody is introduced in m. 5 by the first Violins, and is harmonized by the second Violins and Violas. The Cellos reiterate the motive in mm. 6,8,10 and 11. Beginning at m.12 the motive alternates between the Violin II and the Cellos. The melody is played tutti until the key change at m.29, at which point when the Cellos and Basses take the melody with light accompaniment in the Violins and Violas. The final statement of the melody is played by the first violins beginning in m. 37. The "Silent Night" motive from the beginning alternates between Violin II and the Cellos to the end.