The Little Drummer Boy: String Orchestra Conductor Score

$6.00 USD

The Little Drummer Boy: String Orchestra Conductor Score

Name: The Little Drummer Boy: String Orchestra Conductor Score
Brand: Alfred Music
SKU: 00-29712S
Price: 6.00 USD
Availability: InStock

By Katherine K. Davis, Henry Onorati, and Harry Simeone / arr. John O'Reilly

Grade: 1.5

Item: 00-29712S

$6.00

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A very special arrangement of the classic Christmas hit that will delight your beginners! Sleigh bells, triangle and tom-tom establish the processional style that is further enhanced by cello and bass open fifths. The upper strings get the first pass at playing this famous melody but all sections are featured as this delightful arrangement progresses. This title is available in MakeMusic Cloud.

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Series: Highland/Etling Strictly Strings

Publisher: Alfred Music

Page Count: 8

UPC: 038081330815

SKU: 00-29712S

More about this title

About the Composer: Katherine K. Davis

Katherine K. Davis (1892-1980) composed "The Little Drummer Boy" in 1941, creating one of the most enduring Christmas songs in the American repertoire. Her gift for memorable melody and accessible harmonization made her work especially valuable to music educators, and this carol has become a staple in school and community ensembles across generations.

Davis was a prolific composer of sacred and secular choral music, with a particular focus on writing for young singers and community groups. Her understanding of what works in educational settings shaped a body of work that remains practical and genuinely musical for performers at all levels.

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Why we love this

John O'Reilly's arrangement captures the magic of this beloved carol while keeping the technical demands true to Grade 1.5. The instrumentation choices (sleigh bells, triangle, tom-tom, and open fifth bass foundation) create an immediately festive soundscape that feels special without requiring advanced technique, making it genuinely rewarding for young string players to perform.

What to expect

Warm and inviting, with a processional gait that feels both stately and joyful. The arrangement moves you forward through percussion color and shifting melodic roles, creating moments where each section gets to shine while the whole ensemble sounds cohesive and celebratory.

Who it's for

Beginning string orchestras and beginner to early-intermediate players who are ready to tackle a recognizable melodic standard with modest technical requirements. Conductors seeking a festive, crowd-pleasing piece that actually develops musicianship rather than just filling concert time.

How to get the most out of it

Establish the processional pulse early in rehearsal by having the entire orchestra tap the rhythm pattern with the percussion before adding pitched instruments.
Balance the tom-tom and triangle so they enhance the sleigh bell texture without overpowering the melody line carried by upper strings.
Shape the cello and bass open fifths as a steady harmonic anchor; these voices shouldn't rush or drag, even as upper strings add ornamentation.
Feature each section as the melody passes around (violas and lower voices get turns too); make sure young players understand they're not just accompaniment when they have secondary material.

How to use it

Open a holiday concert with this familiar carol as an audience-friendly opener that sets a festive tone and gives your ensemble an immediate confidence boost. It also works as a concert closer, offering a moment of genuine warmth and accessibility after more challenging repertoire.