Angels We have Heard on High: Quartet

Details

Instrumentation: Brass Quartet
Year: 2021
Duration: 3 min 30 sec
Price: $10.99

Program Notes

'Angels we have Heard on High' is a popular hymn for the Christmas season as the text describes the joy and excitement over the birth of Jesus Christ. The original composition 'Gloria' is actually a popular French noel tune. The text was added later paraphrased for english by James Chadwick. This is a great choice as an opening hymn on Christmas day, but can be performed throughout the Christmas season as well.

The arrangements' structure is closely related to a traditional service, with the introduction being the refrain of the actual hymn. This refrain is the most recognizable section of the whole song, showing intimacy with the closely related counterpoint. Since the refrain repeats itself twice, the first statement is almost an exact copy of the original hymn, and the second has altered harmonies. These altered harmonies help intensify the music even more and enhance the intimate atmosphere.

While all of the stanzas have references to scripture, the the third verse of the arrangement deals with the description of Jesus and his role for the future. With this, it has a more intimate and heroic character rather that just joyous. Performers are allowed to end after the third stanza if it fits the desired service. The musicians may also skip the third stanza if they want to keep the energy high.

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Title: Angels We have Heard on High: Quartet

Description:

"Angels We Have Heard on High" is a cherished Christmas hymn that celebrates the joy surrounding the birth of Jesus Christ. This arrangement for Brass Quartet provides a dynamic interpretation of the original French noel tune, "Gloria." The text was paraphrased into English by James Chadwick, making it widely accessible for English-speaking congregations.

Instrumentation: Brass Quartet

Duration: 3 minutes 30 seconds (3.5 total)

Price: $10.99

Program Notes:

This arrangement is designed to closely follow the structure of a traditional Christmas service. The introduction features the recognizable refrain of the hymn, which is highlighted through counterpoint to create an intimate atmosphere. The refrain is played twice: the first instance closely mirrors the original hymn, while the second introduces altered harmonies to intensify the mood and enhance the overall experience.

Each stanza references scripture, with the third verse depicting Jesus's role and character, adding a heroic element to the arrangement. Performers have the flexibility to conclude after the third stanza or skip it to maintain a high-energy performance throughout.

Purchase Link: Buy Now HereScore PDF: /pdfs/Angels we have Heard on High [Brass Quartet] - Full Score.pdf

Keywords: Christmas hymn, Brass Quartet, Angels We Have Heard on High, Gloria, James Chadwick, traditional Christmas service, scripture references, musical arrangement, holiday music, festive performances, intimate atmosphere, heroic character, flexible performance.

Search Engine Optimization: This composition page is designed to enhance visibility in search results, targeting keywords related to Christmas music, brass arrangements, and sacred hymns. The detailed program notes and clear structure will assist AI crawlers in indexing the content effectively.

Last Edited: November 1, 2025 4:07 PM