“What Child Is This? - Intermediate Piano Arrangement No. 2” is classified as a Level 5 Piano work worth 9,200 points within the Road to Virtuosity progression system. It is categorized under Intermediate Piano Arrangements → Hymns, Christmas Popular and is part of the Sacred collection. The sheet music for “What Child Is This? - Intermediate Piano Arrangement No. 2” provided on this website is available for non-commercial use. This means it may be downloaded, printed, studied, and performed for personal or educational purposes, but it may not be sold, redistributed commercially, or used as part of a paid product without permission.
“What Child Is This?” is an intermediate piano arrangement of the Christmas carol traditionally sung to the tune GREENSLEEVES. This first version, arranged by Polly Bekasova, is written in E minor and 6/8 time, with an Andante tempo marking. The arrangement keeps the melody clear and direct, using a transparent texture with single-note motion, gentle accompaniment figures, and later fuller left-hand support. Students should focus on keeping the 6/8 pulse steady, shaping the melody expressively, and balancing the hands so the carol tune always remains clear.
Measures 1–5 introduce the opening phrase of the carol. The right hand carries the melody in the upper voice, while the left hand supports with simple moving notes underneath. The texture is light and uncluttered, giving the melody a calm, singing character.
Measures 6–9 continue the opening melody with similar gentle motion. The right hand keeps the familiar Greensleeves shape, while the left hand provides a steady foundation. The performer should keep the accompaniment soft and even so the tune does not get covered.
Measures 10–17 bring a fuller sound. The left hand moves into a lower register and begins adding stronger harmonic support, while the right hand continues the melody with dotted rhythms and short passing notes. This section gives the arrangement more depth while still keeping the texture manageable.
Measures 18–25 continue the middle part of the carol. The right hand uses familiar melodic fragments, while the left hand supports with broken patterns and simple bass movement. The 6/8 rhythm should feel gently rocking, not rushed.
Measures 26–33 become more active and expressive. The right hand has more moving notes and accidentals, while the left hand continues to outline the harmony below. This section needs careful coordination so the phrase stays smooth through the added motion.
Measures 34 to the end form the closing passage. The melody settles into its final phrase while the left hand supports with steady harmony and a clear final cadence. The ending should sound peaceful and reflective, matching the reverent character of the carol.
Interesting fact: “What Child Is This?” uses words by William Chatterton Dix and is traditionally sung to the tune GREENSLEEVES. Hymnary traces the text to The Manger Throne from 1865, connecting the familiar Christmas carol with Dix’s original devotional poetry.
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