This intermediate arrangement of “Carol Of The Bells” presents the famous holiday melody in a clear and flowing piano setting. Marked Andante, the arrangement combines the recognizable repeating melodic patterns with a steady accompaniment, giving the piece a graceful and controlled character while still providing opportunities to develop coordination and evenness.

The piece begins with a sparse texture, allowing the melody to stand out clearly. As the arrangement progresses, the accompaniment becomes more active, with repeated eighth-note patterns supporting the melody. Later sections introduce higher-register melodic passages, sustained bass notes, fuller harmonic textures, and changes in register that gradually lead the music toward its final measures.

Measures 1–14 form the opening section. The melody is introduced in the upper register with a spacious texture and rests separating the melodic phrases. The left hand gradually establishes the characteristic rhythmic movement of the piece. Keep the melody clear and light while maintaining accurate rhythm and careful coordination.

Measures 15–32 develop the main musical idea with a more continuous accompaniment. Repeated eighth-note patterns support longer melodic phrases, while the right hand moves between sustained notes and more active melodic figures. Around the later part of this section, the melody moves higher in the register, creating additional contrast. Aim for an even accompaniment and allow the melody to remain prominent.

Measures 33–46 continue the familiar melodic pattern while introducing longer sustained notes in the upper voice and more varied movement underneath. The accompaniment remains active while the melody alternates between shorter figures and sustained tones. The music then moves toward a broader texture, requiring good balance between the hands.

Measures 47–65 present a fuller harmonic section. Sustained bass notes and chords provide a stable foundation beneath the repeated melodic material. The right hand continues to carry the recognizable melody while moving through different registers and rhythmic patterns. Keep the lower part steady and supportive, allowing the upper melody to remain expressive.

Measures 66–77 form the final section. The flowing accompaniment returns beneath the melody, creating a steady sense of forward motion. The final phrases move into the upper register, including an 8va passage, before the music settles into its closing notes. The arrangement finishes with a clear and sustained final sonority, giving the piece a graceful and complete ending.

Interesting fact: “Carol of the Bells” originated as the Ukrainian song “Shchedryk,” based on a traditional Ukrainian folk melody and arranged for choir by Mykola Leontovych. The English Christmas version was created by Peter J. Wilhousky, whose new English lyrics were published in 1936. The original Ukrainian song was not actually about Christmas; Wilhousky's bell-themed lyrics helped transform it into the Christmas classic known today.