In the Bleak Midwinter

As a Christmas carol, this English poem was set to music by Gustav Holst in 1906. Every time I hear it performed, either vocally or instrumentally, all performances have one thing in common – they sound BLEAK – hauntingly desolate! It is a lovely tune that deserves revisiting; therefore, my arrangement sounds cheerful, lighthearted, and exuberant if played quickly, or sounds like a peaceful lullaby if played slowly. The second verse imitates a gentle snowfall. It is in G Major, with easy page turns and no lever or pedal changes.