Each book in this series contains six favorite Christmas carols arranged for four part ensembles. Part 1 is the solo version of the carol from Merry Christmas! with parts 2, 3 and 4 written using the same concepts and hand positions at the same level of difficulty. Also includes suggested sounds for electronic keyboards. General MIDI compatible. Titles: Jingle Bells * O Come, Little Children * O Little Town of Bethlehem * Silent Night * Ukrainian Bell Carol * We Wish You a Merry Christmas.
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Dr. Gayle Kowalchyk teaches class piano, piano, and piano pedagogy at California State University, Northridge, bringing decades of experience in piano education to every project she undertakes. Her academic preparation spans performance degrees from Ohio University and Northwestern University, culminating in an Ed.D. in piano pedagogy from Teachers College, Columbia University. She has held faculty positions at Eastern Illinois University, Oklahoma Baptist University, and the University of Oklahoma, and spent summers teaching ensemble and class piano at the National Music Camp in Interlochen.
A recognized voice in piano pedagogy nationally, Dr. Kowalchyk regularly presents at conventions of the Music Teachers National Association, Music Educators National Conference, and the World Piano Pedagogy Conference. Alongside her husband, Dr. E. L. Lancaster, she has authored more than 300 educational piano publications, including Alfred's Premier Piano Course and Music for Little Mozarts. Her work consistently bridges the gap between pedagogical rigor and genuine musical enjoyment.
Why we love this
Four-part arrangements at the same level let students play together immediately without waiting for advanced players to catch up. Each carol uses concepts already mastered in Book 3, so the focus stays on ensemble listening and blend rather than new technical hurdles. The suggested electronic keyboard sounds make this practical for hybrid or digital rehearsal settings.
What to expect
Familiar carols take on new warmth when four pianists voice them together. The arrangements sit comfortably under the hands while still creating genuine harmonic depth, making even young players feel like they're contributing to something larger than a solo performance.
Who it's for
Piano students at the intermediate level who are ready to experience ensemble playing without abandoning the repertoire level they know. Teachers looking for accessible ways to introduce four-part harmony and ensemble balance during the holiday season.
How to get the most out of it
Balance Part 1 as the melodic anchor; Parts 2, 3, and 4 should sit underneath with clarity but never overshadow the carol's recognizable tune.
Rehearse each part separately first, then layer them gradually: Part 1 with Part 2, then add Part 3, then Part 4. This reveals how the harmony builds.
Experiment with the General MIDI keyboard sounds in rehearsal. Students often invest more attention when the arrangement sounds polished, even at early stages.
How to use it
Feature these as a winter concert finale where students can showcase both individual progress and newly developed ensemble skills. The recognizable titles also invite family members to sing along, turning a student performance into a shared musical moment.
Skills your students will build
Reading and maintaining independence within four-part textures
Balance and blend in ensemble settings
Harmonic awareness through playing non-melodic lines
Coordination across multiple piano parts
Rhythmic precision when locked with other players
Application of established technical concepts to new musical contexts
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