O Tannenbaum (Oh Christmas Tree)

This spirited traditional carol, “O Tannenbaum” (“Oh Christmas Tree”), is taken on a musical voyage through several different tempos, keys, and moods, including a Latin section with an optional shaker accompaniment. The chromatic harmonies and changes in tempo and meter provide challenging material through which to develop the skills of basic musicianship and interpretation. The music is not technically difficult, and should be well within the grasp of intermediate to advanced ensembles from high school to professional levels. Each instrument is featured in both solo and ensemble roles. Arranged for string sextet by Bill Dobbins.