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“Angels
We Have Heard on High” is a joyful arrangement, successfully
capturing the celebratory spirit of Christmas. The theme is first
stated by the solo horn in the top register of that instrument.
Then the melody is passed around as the harmonies become progressively
thicker with each newly added instrument. The step modulation at
the end gives the piece a rich, enthusiastic finish.
This piece requires a skill level of
high school or higher. The composer set out to write music which
would be interesting for musicians to play, but would not be too
complicated for the audience to enjoy. Lewis bridged the gap
between satisfying the musician and the listener, producing an
arrangement which compromises without demanding sacrifice on the part of
the musician or the listener. Even professional players will find
the "Angels We Have Heard on High" engaging with the
many stimulating and subtle challenges that it offers.
"Angels We
Have Heard on High" is a truly "fun
to play and fun to listen to" work which will fit almost any public
performance focused on Christmas. It can be used by caroling brass
players, at youth concerts, by churches, at shopping malls and airports
welcoming in the festive season, by retirement homes, or at Christmas
parties.
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