In the Bleak Midwinter for String Quartet is currently unavailable

About this arrangement

String Quartet Cello,String Quartet,Viola,Violin - Level 2 - Digital Download SKU: A0.1496962 Composed by Traditional. Arranged by James M. Guthrie. Chamber,Christmas,Historic,Standards,Traditional. 9 pages. Jmsgu3 #1073376. Published by jmsgu3 (A0.1496962). "In the Bleak Midwinter" is an essential and beloved Christmas carol with several notable aspects. Origins and Authorship The carol originated as a poem titled "A Christmas Carol," written by Christina Rossetti, a prominent English poet, in 1872. Rossetti was known for combining deep Christian faith with rich artistic sensibility in her works. Musical Settings The poem was set to music multiple times, with two versions becoming particularly popular: Gustav Holst's hymn tune "Cranham" in 1906, which is more straightforward and suitable for congregational singing. Harold Darke's more complex choral setting from 1911 was named the best Christmas carol in a 2008 poll of choirmasters and choral experts. Poetic and Theological Significance The carol is notable for its stark imagery, contrasting the harsh winter landscape with the divine incarnation—the paradoxical juxtaposition of earthly elements with the ineffable nature of Christ's birth. Profound theological insights are conveyed through simple language—reflection on the meaning of gift-giving about Christ's birth. Cultural Impact "In the Bleak Midwinter" has become a beloved part of Christmas traditions. Choirs perform it widely, and various artists record it. Many music experts consider The carol one of the greatest Christmas songs. Its imagery and themes have inspired reflection on rest, renewal, and the deeper meaning of the winter season. The enduring popularity of "In the Bleak Midwinter" stems from its beautiful blend of evocative poetry, rich theological content, and dynamic musical settings, making it a cherished part of Christmas celebrations for many. This product was created by a member of ArrangeMe, Hal Leonard’s global self-publishing community of independent composers, arrangers, and songwriters. ArrangeMe allows for the publication of unique arrangements of both popular titles and original compositions from a wide variety of voices and backgrounds. About Digital Downloads Digital Downloads are downloadable sheet music files that can be viewed directly on your computer, tablet or mobile device. Once you download your digital sheet music, you can view and print it at home, school, or anywhere you want to make music, and you don’t have to be connected to the internet. Just purchase, download and play! PLEASE NOTE: Your Digital Download will have a watermark at the bottom of each page that will include your name, purchase date and number of copies purchased. You are only authorized to print the number of copies that you have purchased. You may not digitally distribute or print more copies than purchased for use (i.e., you may not print or digitally distribute individual copies to friends or students).