African Bell Carol (for String Orchestra and Percussion): String Orchestra Conductor Score & Parts
Traditional / arr. Robert W. Smith
Grade: 2.5
Item: 00-PK-0004942
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Description
The traditional "Ukrainian Bell Carol" has been expertly scored in a multicultural setting for intermediate strings and optional percussion. The arrangement begins quietly with percussion disguising the familiar melodic material. A series of musical evolutions builds to an impressive conclusion. This selection is sure to be a holiday treat for years to come. (1:43)
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Additional Details
Series:
Belwin Intermediate String Orchestra
Publisher:
Alfred Music
Page Count:
154
SKU:
00-PK-0004942
More about this title
About the Arranger: Robert W. Smith
Robert W. Smith has established himself as a leading voice in American orchestral and concert band composition, with over 400 published works performed across North America, Europe, Australia, and Asia. His output ranges from ambitious symphonic works like The Divine Comedy and The Odyssey to essential repertoire for developing ensembles, many of which have become cornerstones of the standard literature. Smith holds degrees from Troy State University and the University of Miami, and has worked extensively as both a conductor and clinician, bringing his music directly to musicians worldwide.
Beyond the concert hall, Smith's arrangements and compositions have reached audiences through television broadcasts, ceremonial events, and major cultural institutions. His work has been heard from Olympic opening ceremonies to the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade, reflecting his versatility across genres and contexts. The majority of his catalog is published through Alfred Music.
Why we love this
Smith's approach transforms a beloved carol into something fresh without abandoning its essential character. The gradual unveiling of the melody through percussion and the layered build to conclusion gives intermediate players a satisfying arc to shape, rather than simply stating a familiar tune straight through. At Grade 2.5, this arrangement respects the technical abilities of younger string orchestras while offering the musical sophistication that makes rehearsals engaging.
What to expect
The piece unfolds like a musical discovery, with percussion fragments gradually coalescing into the familiar bell-carol melody as strings enter. The journey from hushed, mysterious opening to a confident, full-voiced conclusion captures both the contemplative and celebratory sides of the season.
Who it's for
This arrangement serves intermediate string orchestras seeking substantial holiday repertoire that avoids oversimplification. It works equally well for programs that celebrate multicultural traditions or for ensembles wanting to stretch beyond standard Grade 2 fare without jumping to advanced difficulty.
How to get the most out of it
- Balance the opening carefully so that percussion dialogue draws listeners in rather than obscures the melody emerging in the strings.
- Shape each musical evolution as a distinct section rather than one continuous swell; the architecture matters more than constant crescendo.
- Let the optional percussion parts enhance texture and color without overwhelming the string core, particularly in the quieter passages where they establish the harmonic foundation.
How to use it
Program this as the centerpiece of a winter concert dedicated to global holiday traditions, pairing it with other culturally diverse selections. Alternatively, place it toward the end of a mixed holiday program where its building energy can provide momentum toward a powerful closer without requiring an encore.
Skills your students will build
- Balancing independent percussion and string textures
- Shaping long-form musical architecture across multiple sections
- Interpreting percussion as melodic and harmonic support rather than accompaniment
- Performing with control and expression in quiet dynamic ranges