Explore this curated selection of nine traditional Christmas carols, perfect for string quartet performances at holiday concerts
If you're looking to infuse your string quartet performance with the timeless charm of traditional carols, look no further than this vibrant collection of nine Christmas carols, expertly arranged for string quartet to elevate your holiday performances.
From lively English classics to soulful American spirituals, your public will adore these historical pieces when your string quartet performs them during your next holiday concert or recital.
Whether you're aiming to enchant a crowd during the holiday season or add depth to a nativity event, this repertoire delivers joy and tradition. Explore these Christmas selections to bring warmth and melody to your holiday season!
Top Christmas Carols for String Quartet
Here are the 9 top traditional Christmas Carods for string quartet.
| Carols |
|---|
| Deck The Halls |
| Ding Dong Merrily On High |
| What Child Is This? |
| We Wish You A Merry Christmas |
| We Three Kings |
| The First Noel |
| Good King Wenceslas |
| God Rest Ye Merry, Gentlemen |
| Go Tell It On The Mountain |
Deck The Halls
Rooted in the 16th-century Welsh tune "Nos Galan," Deck The Halls transitioned from a simple New Year's Eve song to a Christmas favorite by the 19th century. First published in 1862, it reflects Victorian caroling traditions with its lively melody.
The phrase "'Tis the season" has become a holiday staple, and its shared melody with "Greensleeves" adds historical intrigue. This easy G Major arrangement suits all skill levels, making it a joyful, crowd-pleasing addition to festive performances.
Ding Dong Merrily On High
Adapted in 1924 by George Ratcliffe Woodward from a 16th-century French dance tune, "Bransle de l'Official," this bright and energetic carol celebrates the joy of Christmas bells.
Your audience will instantly recognize the tune's macaronic style, although its dance origins are in marked contrast with its sacred theme. Popular with choirs for its catchy tune, the intermediate D Major arrangement for strings offers a solemn yet lively tone that will be sure to captivate audiences.
Discover Ding Dong Merrily On High
What Child Is This?
Published in 1865 with lyrics by William Chatterton Dix, this carol pairs the nativity narrative with the traditional melody Greensleeves, which is possibly Elizabethan in origin.
This intermediate E minor arrangement allows plenty of room for expressive playing, from the violins to the violoncello part, and this arrangement will resonate deeply with listeners around the world.
We Wish You A Merry Christmas
This 16th-century English carol from the West Country (which is really the extreme southwest of England), first published in 1853, captures the tradition of carolers requesting figgy pudding. Its New Year references and cheerful chorus are sure to bring your concert finale to a resounding success.
This easy C Major arrangement for string quartet is infused with festive energy while remaining accessible and easy to perform.
Find We Wish You A Merry Christmas
We Three Kings
Composed in 1857 by John Henry Hopkins Jr. for an Epiphany pageant, this American carol narrates the Magi’s journey. Set in the solemn key of B minor, this solemn arrangement is sure to bring a smile on everyone's face while adding a mysterious tone to Christmas or Epiphany concerts.
The First Noel
A Cornish carol from the 16th or 17th century, published in 1823, The First Noel tells of the shepherds’ encounter with angels. The foreign-sounding title contains the word "Noel", which means "Christmas" from Latin "natalis,".
This easy D Major arrangement and timeless melody make it an accessible favourite. Your audience will love your performance of this carol at holiday events.
Good King Wenceslas
Written in 1853 by John Mason Neale, this carol is based on Wenceslaus I, Duke of Bohemia, set to a 13th-century spring melody. It highlights charity on the Feast of Stephen, with Wenceslaus’ Czech legacy adding depth.
This easy D Major arrangement and narrative of generosity make it a meaningful, accessible piece for festive performances.
God Rest Ye Merry, Gentlemen
Dating to the 16th century and published in 1760, this carol celebrates the shepherds’ joy, which may seem a little odd since the piece closely resembles somber church music.
The title phrase "God rest you merry" meant "keep you mighty," and this B Minor arrangement for string quartet offers an uplifting, rich piece for holiday concerts.
Find God Rest Ye Merry, Gentlemen
Go Tell It On The Mountain
A 19th-century African American spiritual, published in 1907, this carol narrates the shepherds’ proclamation, popularized by the Fisk Jubilee Singers.
Adapted as a civil rights anthem in 1963, this easy G Major arrangement for string quartet will make a vibrant, meaningful addition to holiday performances.
