Dancing King Wenceslas: 2nd Violin
Traditional / arr. Thom Sharp
Grade: 2
Item: 00-PC-0016011_VN2
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Description
Spiced up with lots of hand percussion parts, this fun-to-play arrangement of a Christmas classic dances its way through Latin, waltz, disco, and rock styles, all in first position. Every section gets multiple turns at the melody, insuring that all of the students are noticed and challenged. Rhythms that may be unfamiliar or difficult are repeated throughout the arrangement, simplifying the rehearsal process.
Don't just read it, hear it, play along with it, and watch your students grow with it. In MakeMusic Cloud, Dancing King Wenceslas: 2nd Violin comes alive with professional accompaniment, adjustable tempo, and built-in practice tools that turn solo practice into real progress.
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Additional Details
Series:
Highland/Etling String Orchestra
Publisher:
Alfred Music
Page Count:
140
SKU:
00-PC-0016011_VN2
More about this title
Why we love this
This arrangement solves the real problem of keeping a Grade 2 string orchestra engaged while maintaining rehearsal efficiency. By cycling the melody through every section and repeating rhythmic figures strategically, Thom Sharp designed something that gives every student a moment in the spotlight without creating the administrative headache of constant remedial work. The style shifts (Latin, waltz, disco, rock) keep the energy high, and the hand percussion parts add textural variety that turns a familiar carol into something genuinely fresh.
What to expect
A musical journey that refuses to take itself seriously. The classic carol melody becomes a shape-shifter, dancing from the warmth of a waltz to the infectious pulse of disco to the swagger of rock, all while staying rooted in that recognizable tune. The hand percussion gives it texture and shimmer; the repeated rhythmic figures create accessibility without dullness.
Who it's for
Grade 2 string orchestras looking for a secular holiday piece that entertains both ensemble and audience without overshooting technical ability. Directors seeking to feature every section of the orchestra and build confidence in younger players through repeated melodic responsibility. Groups with hand percussion players who need meaningful parts beyond basic tambourine.
How to get the most out of it
- Establish the Latin groove first by locking the percussion and bass line before adding the upper strings; this foundation makes the style transitions crystal clear.
- Mark the conductor score where each section takes the melody so you can cue confidently and signal clearly when the spotlight shifts.
- Give the hand percussion players individual rehearsal time before the full ensemble run; their parts anchor the character changes and they need confidence in their independence.
- Experiment with articulation and bow speed during the disco section to create real contrast with the waltz material; even young players respond to director modeling of how the sound should shift.
How to use it
Anchor a winter concert's lighter half or use it as a finale that leaves audiences smiling. Pair it with a more serious holiday arrangement (like a traditional carol or sacred piece) to showcase range. Consider programming it mid-season when technique is solid but morale benefits from something purely joyful.
Skills your students will build
- Playing in first position across multiple style contexts (Latin, waltz, disco, rock)
- Tracking melody distribution and responding to section cues
- Reading and performing repeated rhythmic patterns accurately
- Ensemble listening and synchronization with hand percussion
- Understanding style and articulation as interpretive tools within a single piece