Jingle Bells: A Theme & Variation Project

Jingle Bells was written and composed by James S. Pierpont (1822-1893).

Pierpont performed this song for the first time in 1857 for a Thanksgiving program at the large Boston church where he taught Sunday School, and performed it again at Christmastime. It is reported that Pierpont actually wrote the song in 1850, and the original title was "One Horse Open Sleigh." It was published under that title in September 1857, selling for 25 cents per copy. It was published under the title "Jingle Bells" in 1859.

This was the first well-known American secular carol, however, the song did not acquire widespread popularity until the 20th century. The ironic aspect about this song becoming a favorite Christmas song is that there are no specific references to Christmas in its lyrics.

PART 1: Theme
In Finale Notepad or Flat, write out the theme for Jingle Bells for your instrument.

        The piece is in D Major; (10 points)

        The time signature is 4/4; (10 points)

        The piece should begin on the 3^rd note of the key. (5 points)

        The theme consists of quarter notes and half notes. (10 points)

        It should be 16 measures. (10 points)

PART 2: Variation
In Finale Notepad or Flat, write out a variation for Jingle Bells for your instrument.

        The key signature can stay the same, or change to a minor key. (10 points)

        The time signature can stay the same, or change to 3/4. (10 points)

        You can use any combination of notes and rests. (10 points)

PART 3: MP3 Performance

For this part, you must record your Variation on SmartMusic – an MP3 will be provided. (25 points)

TOTAL SCORE: _______

DUE: Monday, December 21, 2015

• Print out of Theme and Variation
• Recording in Smart Music