This intermediate arrangement of “It Came Upon The Midnight Clear” presents the familiar Christmas carol in a flowing and lyrical piano setting. Marked Allegretto, the arrangement combines a clearly defined melody with rhythmic chordal accompaniment at the beginning before developing into more flowing eighth-note patterns.

The piece starts with the melody in the upper register supported by repeated chordal figures in the lower part. As the arrangement progresses, the accompaniment becomes increasingly active, eventually moving into flowing eighth-note patterns that create a continuous sense of motion beneath the melody. The contrast between the opening chordal texture and the later flowing accompaniment gives the arrangement a graceful progression toward its conclusion.

Measures 1–9 form the opening section. The melody is introduced clearly in the upper register while the left hand provides repeated chordal accompaniment. The texture is steady and well defined, with the melody moving through short phrases and occasional longer notes. Keep the accompaniment even and controlled while allowing the melody to remain prominent.

Measures 10–17 continue the main melodic material with variations in the accompaniment. The right hand moves through a mixture of shorter melodic figures and sustained notes, while the left hand maintains the rhythmic foundation. The melody remains clearly recognizable, so focus on smooth phrasing and careful coordination between the hands.

Measures 18–24 introduce a significant change in texture. The left hand moves into continuous flowing eighth-note patterns, creating more movement beneath the melody. The right hand continues to carry the melodic line with longer phrases and changes of register. Keep the flowing accompaniment light and even so that it does not overpower the melody.

Measures 25–32 continue the flowing accompaniment while the melody develops through several phrases. The lower part maintains a steady stream of eighth notes, while the upper voice alternates between shorter melodic movements and longer sustained tones. This section requires good coordination and balance between the hands.

Measures 33–36 form the final section. The melody moves into longer closing notes while the accompaniment becomes more spacious and supports the final harmonic progression. The music gradually settles into the final sustained sonority, giving the arrangement a peaceful and complete ending.

Interesting fact: “It Came Upon the Midnight Clear” was written by Edmund Sears in 1849 and first published in the Christian Register in Boston that same year. The familiar melody known as “Carol” was written by Richard Storrs Willis in 1850. In the United States, Willis's melody remains the tune most closely associated with the carol, while in Britain and other Commonwealth countries the text is also commonly sung to “Noel,” a tune adapted by Arthur Sullivan.