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Away in a Manger [orchestration for low voice, G]: Low Voice, Orchestra Accompaniment, Conductor Score

$12.00 USD
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Away in a Manger [orchestration for low voice, G] Cover Image
Away in a Manger [orchestration for low voice, G]: Low Voice, Orchestra Accompaniment, Conductor Score

Away in a Manger [orchestration for low voice, G]: Low Voice, Orchestra Accompaniment, Conductor Score

By James Ramsey Murray, ed./arr. by Steve Cohen/ Anonymous text, which is sometimes attributed to Martin Luther

Item: 36-A834301
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Away in a Manger [orchestration for low voice, G]: Low Voice, Orchestra Accompaniment, Conductor Score & Parts

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Description
The beautiful Christmas carol AWAY IN A MANGER has long been thought to be the work of the German reformer of religion, Martin Luther, though the text is now believed to have originated in America. While a setting of the text to music by William J. Kirkpatrick is also commonly heard, the setting by American hymnist James Ramsey Murray, first published in his 1887 collection Dainty Songs for Little Lads and Lasses as LUTHER'S CRADLE HYMN, remains the most popular. It is from this publication that the attribution to Martin Luther comes, and an additional spurious attribution to a "Carl Mueller" in 1914 created further confusion, with the melody itself sometimes called "Mueller." Murray's authorship is now fairly established. This version of the beloved carol has been orchestrated and arranged for low voice and orchestra (key of G) by Steve Cohen. Instrumentation: 2.1+1(EH).2.2: 4.0.0.0: Timp.Perc(1): Hp: Str (9-8-7-6-5 in set): Solo Low Voice. A version for high voice and orchestra (A834490) in the key of B-flat is also available from the publisher.

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Additional Details
Series: Kalmus Christmas Carols for Voice and Orchestra
Publisher: Keiser Productions, Inc.
ISBN10: 8-89-563835-2
ISBN13: 979-889-563-8354
UPC: 612735830304
SKU: 36-A834301
Instrumentation: 2.1+1(EH).2.2: 4.0.0.0: Timp.Perc(1): Hp: Str (9-8-7-6-5 in set): Solo Low Voice

More about this title

About the Composer: James Ramsey Murray

James Ramsey Murray (1841-1905) was an American hymnist and composer whose gift lay in creating simple, singable melodies that could reach ordinary congregations and families. His 1887 collection Dainty Songs for Little Lads and Lasses introduced what would become one of the most enduring Christmas carols in the English-speaking world, though the true authorship and origins of Away in a Manger remained clouded for decades after its publication. Murray's approach to hymn writing prioritized accessibility and emotional directness over harmonic complexity, making his melodies natural vehicles for both sacred and secular arrangements.

Why we love this

Steve Cohen's orchestration brings fresh instrumental color to this carol without overwhelming the intimacy of a solo voice. The arrangement respects Murray's straightforward melodic gift while giving an orchestra full of character detail to work with, making this ideal for holiday concerts that need sophistication beyond simple carol singing. A low voice version of this American standard opens programming possibilities for baritones and basses who rarely get featured solo work in the Christmas season.

What to expect

The familiar melody takes on quiet dignity when sung from a lower vocal range and supported by full orchestra. This version retains the carol's gentle reverence while adding warmth and depth through the orchestral colors, creating an intimate moment within a larger ensemble context.

Who it's for

This arrangement suits baritone and bass soloists performing in orchestral Christmas concerts, holiday specials, and festive community celebrations. Conductors looking for a substantial but not overly demanding vocal showcase will find the orchestral part manageable while remaining musically satisfying.

How to get the most out of it

  • Balance the orchestral accompaniment carefully; the carol's power comes from the clarity of the vocal line, not from orchestral weight. Rehearse with the soloist present so the orchestra learns to respond to phrasing rather than driving tempo.
  • Shape the melody with gentle breathing spaces between phrases. This carol benefits from stillness and simplicity in the vocal delivery, which the orchestra should mirror through careful dynamic control.
  • Allow the strings to establish the harmonic foundation while woodwinds and brass add textural interest only where the score indicates. Restraint serves the music better than full orchestral sound throughout.

How to use it

Position this as a featured moment within a broader holiday concert, perhaps following more energetic carols or instrumental selections to let its reflective quality stand out. It works equally well as a closing piece that sends audiences home with a sense of peaceful closure. Consider pairing it with instrumental Christmas selections that share similar orchestration values.

Skills your students will build

  • Balancing a featured soloist with orchestral accompaniment
  • Shaping longer melodic phrases with attention to breath and phrasing
  • Reading and conducting in the key of G major
  • Sustaining ensemble focus through music that emphasizes simplicity and restraint

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