A horse-drawn sleigh gliding along the newfallen snow, and filled with laughing and singing revelers, is a joyous winter scene in the Adirondack Mountain region of northern New York.To musically depict this happy mood, in both the introduction and main theme, keep bow strokes short and in the upper half of the bow. This style also applies to measure in 30 through 38, when the lower strings take their turn at the melody; the cellos might be more comfortable a bit lower in the bow. In contrast, use a full legato bow stroke from measures 18 through 29, and again at measures 39 through 70. A somewhat more detached and accented bowing is called for in the transition section at measures 71 to 78, as we return to the short, light strokes of the main theme. For a more authentic performance, the addition of a string of sleigh bells played in a steady eighth note rhythm would be more appropriate. Encourage performers to shout the directions loudly to the imaginary horses.
About 2011 Midwest Clinic Performance Pieces
This title was performed at the 2011 Midwest Clinic, the largest band and choral educational conference in the United States. Over thirty performances are given each year by diverse ensembles of varying levels - elementary school, high school, college, military and more. Each performance title is carefully selected and represents the very best in educational sheet music. The Midwest Clinic aims to raise the standards of music education while supporting teachers and music educators.
