Swingin' Bell Carol Cover Image

Swingin' Bell Carol: Concert Band Conductor Score & Parts

$57.00 USD
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Swingin' Bell Carol Cover Image

Swingin' Bell Carol: Concert Band Conductor Score & Parts

By Mykola Leontovych / arr. Michael Story

Grade: 2 (Easy)

Item: 00-47397

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Description
The inspiration of this setting comes from Ukrainian composer Mykola Leontovych's original 1914 work for mixed choir, which demonstrates both his sacred and nationalistic style. The four-note ostinato is known by several different titles and performed in a wide variety of styles including classical, metal, country, rock, and pop, and, with this jazz setting, the original takes on yet another new flavor. (2:00)

Don't just read it, hear it, play along with it, and watch your students grow with it. In MakeMusic Cloud, Swingin' Bell Carol: Concert Band Conductor Score & Parts 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: Belwin Young Band
Publisher: Alfred Music
Page Count: 132
UPC: 038081545073
SKU: 00-47397

More about this title

About the Composer: Mykola Leontovych

Mykola Leontovych (1877-1921) was a Ukrainian composer whose work bridged sacred music traditions with nationalist expression during a pivotal period in Ukrainian cultural history. His compositions, particularly choral works, became central to the preservation and celebration of Ukrainian musical identity, earning him recognition as a cornerstone of modern Ukrainian classical music.

Why we love this

Michael Story's swing arrangement transforms Leontovych's iconic four-note ostinato into something your band will genuinely enjoy playing. Grade 2 scoring makes this accessible without sacrificing the groove and sophistication that keeps rehearsals energized, and the 2-minute duration fits perfectly into holiday concerts where you need impact without exhausting your roster.

What to expect

Energetic and modern, with the familiar four-note figure driving forward under bright swing articulation. The arrangement captures a festive, almost celebratory energy that references its sacred origins while speaking directly to contemporary ears.

Who it's for

Concert bands working at Grade 2 level who want a holiday selection that feels contemporary and engaging rather than traditional. Directors programming pops concerts will find this especially useful as a crowd-pleasing closer that feels substantial despite its accessibility.

How to get the most out of it

  • Establish the four-note ostinato as a rhythmic anchor before layering in melodic content; have the section that carries it count through the first run-through to lock the foundation.
  • Shape the swing feel by encouraging the rhythm section to sit slightly behind the beat while the upper woodwinds stay forward, creating the pocket that makes the arrangement breathe.
  • Balance the melody against the repeating figure by keeping accompanying parts light and responsive rather than pushing for volume; the ostinato's power comes from its persistence, not force.

How to use it

Program this as a second-half opener or finale to shift the energy of a holiday concert toward something rhythmically driven and current. It pairs well with traditional carols earlier in the program, offering contrast without requiring acoustic adjustment or audience transition time.

Skills your students will build

  • Articulating swing rhythms consistently across sections
  • Maintaining rhythmic precision around an ostinato foundation
  • Balancing melodic content against accompaniment patterns
  • Reading and executing syncopated figures at accessible ranges

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