The Seven Joys of Christmas - No. 3 : The Joy of Mary - Joseph dearest, Joseph mine

Stille Nacht! Heilige Nacht!

This simple concert arrangement employs Franz Gruber’s original melody as sung in Northern Europe, and three of Joseph Mohr’s original German stanzas. Composed in a charming “Austrian style,” this arrangement evokes the sound of a traditional band of folk singers, as one might hear in a Christkindlmarkt in Germany or Austria. It is especially useful when programming a Christmas in Germany-themed (or Christmas in Austria-themed) concert, and works perfectly as a hushed, elegant encore. Duration 4:30This simple concert arrangement employs Franz Gruber’s original melody as sung in Northern Europe, and three of Joseph Mohr’s original German stanzas. Composed in a charming “Austrian style,” this arrangement evokes the sound of a traditional band of folk singers, as one might hear in a Christkindlmarkt in Germany or Austria. It is especially useful when programming a Christmas in Germany-themed (or Christmas in Austria-themed) concert, and works perfectly as a hushed, elegant encore. Duration 4:30

Serenade and Dance

In one movement with two contrasting sections, the work opens with the Serenade, which is tranquil and melodic. It is followed by the energetically angular, raucously rhythmic Dance that features a catchy tune alternating several times with contrasting melodies, all in the spirit of a lively romp. The work was premiered in April 2013 by Shannon Scott, clarinet, and Melissa Loehnig, piano, at Whitman College, Walla Walla, Washington. Commissioned by and dedicated to Joseph Juracek.