RTV repertoire catalog

It Came Upon the Midnight Clear - Intermediate Piano Arrangement No. 3

ID 1398 · Structured composer unknown · Piano · Level 4 · Points 5520

Non-Commercial · Download listed · Match: filters

Collections: Hymns Hymns - Christmas

This intermediate arrangement of “It Came Upon The Midnight Clear” presents the familiar Christmas carol in a graceful and flowing piano setting. Marked Allegretto, the arrangement combines a clearly defined melody with a steady accompaniment of repeated and flowing notes, creating a gentle but continuously moving character.The piece begins with the melody presented clearly in the upper register, supported by a light rhythmic accompaniment. As the arrangement progresses, the right hand moves through different registers and melodic patterns while the left hand maintains the underlying motion. Repeated-note figures, sustained tones, and changes in register give the arrangement variety while preserving the peaceful character of the original carol.Measures 1–13 form the opening section. The melody is introduced clearly in the upper register while the accompaniment provides a steady rhythmic foundation. The texture remains relatively light, allowing the melody to stand out. Focus on maintaining an even pulse and keeping the accompanying notes controlled and supportive.Measures 14–24 continue the main melodic material with a more active accompaniment. The right hand moves through a mixture of shorter melodic figures and sustained notes, while the lower part maintains the flowing rhythmic pattern. Careful coordination between the hands is important, particularly where the melodic line changes register.Measures 25–33 develop the melody with a fuller texture and more continuous movement. The accompaniment remains active underneath the upper voice, while repeated melodic patterns help maintain the recognizable character of the carol. Keep the accompaniment even and make sure the melody remains prominent throughout the section.Measures 34–37 form the final section. The melody continues over the flowing accompaniment before moving toward longer closing notes and sustained harmony. The final measures gradually settle into the concluding sonority, giving the arrangement a calm and complete ending.Interesting fact: “It Came Upon the Midnight Clear” was written by Edmund Sears in 1849, and the familiar American melody, known as “Carol,” was composed by Richard Storrs Willis in 1850. The two are closely associated in the United States, while in Britain and other Commonwealth countries the text is also commonly sung to “Noel,” a tune adapted by Arthur Sullivan.How to earn points for this piece:Download or purchase the sheet music.Practice the piece carefully. Watch the video example to make sure you are accurate.Record yourself on video and upload it to Youtube. (Perfection is not required. A few minor mistakes are okay)Submit a link to your video here for evaluation. We will watch your performance and give you feedback. If you need more practice - we will let you know exactly what you need to work on along with additional practice suggestions. (Or you can submit a video to the public and other users will evaluate your video)If your performance is good, we will approve your video and you can collect your points.