Description

Celebrate the joy and triumph of Easter with this exquisite brass quartet arrangement of Charles Wood’s beloved Easter carol, This Joyful Easter-tide. Composed in 1894, this timeless piece features a traditional Dutch melody, “Vruechten,” harmonized by Wood with lyrics by George Ratcliffe Woodward. This arrangement brings the uplifting spirit of Easter to life through the vibrant and resonant tones of brass instruments, making it a perfect addition to Easter concerts, church services, or seasonal performances.

Instrumentation:
This arrangement is scored for a versatile brass quartet, accommodating a range of instruments to suit various ensembles. The parts are as follows:

1st Part: Trumpet/Cornet in Bb, Trumpet/Cornet in C
2nd Part: Trumpet/Cornet in Bb, Trumpet/Cornet in C
3rd Part: Horn in F, Horn in Eb
4th Part: Trombone, Euphonium/Baritone (T.C.)

Level of Difficulty: Medium
This arrangement is accessible to intermediate-level brass players, offering a balance of melodic lines, harmonies, and rhythmic patterns that are both engaging and rewarding to perform. The parts are thoughtfully arranged to highlight the strengths of each instrument while maintaining the carol’s original charm and character.

Potential Uses:
Easter concerts or recitals
Church services during the Easter season
Seasonal brass ensemble performances
Educational settings for intermediate brass players

About the Composer and the Piece:
Charles Wood (1866–1926) was a distinguished Irish composer and educator, celebrated for his contributions to Anglican church music. A student of the Royal College of Music and later a professor at Cambridge University, Wood’s works remain central to the choral and liturgical repertoire. His collaboration with Anglican priest and lyricist George Ratcliffe Woodward resulted in the creation of This Joyful Easter-tide, a carol that has become a cherished part of Easter celebrations worldwide.

Originally published in the 1894 collection Carols for Easter and Ascensiontide, this carol has been featured in numerous hymnals and choral collections, including the Cowley Carol Book (1902) and Carols for Choirs. Its enduring popularity is a testament to its joyful melody and rich harmonies, which continue to inspire congregations and performers alike.

Why Choose This Arrangement?
This brass quartet arrangement captures the essence of Wood’s harmonization while showcasing the brilliance and versatility of brass instruments. Whether performed in a sacred setting or a concert hall, this arrangement will resonate with audiences, bringing the joy and hope of Easter to life through its vibrant and celebratory sound.

Add this arrangement to your repertoire and let the triumphant tones of brass elevate your Easter celebrations with This Joyful Easter-tide.