Voicing and Harmonies in Music

Let's look at voicing. We're imagining a choir singing it, which includes:

• Soprano
• Alto
• Tenor
• Bass

Soprano and Bass

• The soprano corresponds to our fifth finger in the right hand.
• The bass corresponds to the little finger in the left hand.

We also have these wonderful harmonies, especially later on, with words such as peace and heavenly. We want to envelop the alto and tenor qualities.

Tenor and Bass Parts

Looking at bar nine, we have the tenor part with a beautiful little counter melody. Later, we have lots of bass at around bar 16, specifically at the word "Child." And, as mentioned, the alto parts appear around bars 22 and 23, showcasing a really scrummy kind of A flat chord.

Melody

Of course, the melody is always carried by the fifth finger of the right hand.

Practice Techniques

A way to practice this is by focusing on specific parts:

• Play the right hand melody with the little finger, maintaining the fingering you're learning, perhaps alongside the bass line.
• Starting from bar five, you could practice to establish a good melody line.
• Alternatively, concentrate on the tenor part.

Differentiating Voices

Away from this piece, consider playing the simplest chord, a C major chord, while:

• Imagining the top part
• Focusing on the middle part
• Paying attention to the alto part

This approach allows you to differentiate voices purely by ear, transmitting this intellect right down into your fingertips.

Word Painting

Now, let's look at word painting. We are fortunate to have the words with the melody. Words like:

• Bright: Accompanied by wonderful harmony.
• Child: Evokes a very feminine chord.
• Holy, Sleep, and Heavenly: Emphasizing a soprano timbre.

Every time you play it, take a moment to appreciate how interesting these harmonies are. You want that magic dust kind of sound.

Rhythm and Dynamics

Let's analyze bar 25, where the left hand utilizes an interesting rhythm.

• This marks the first time we're moving significantly in the left hand, starting with the lowest point, the wonderful bassy G.
• The thumb acts like a heartbeat, but be very careful not to let it dominate. Remember, your thumb has the largest bone of your fingers, often resulting in a heavier sound.

Creating Pulsation

Aim for more prominence from the little finger in the left hand to create a pulsating, breathless feel. Underneath that lower G, grip the key:

• Play it without releasing, ensuring a controlled sound.
• Keep fingers firmly on the keys throughout.

Emotional Connection

To wrap up, consider the emotional connection to the words. When you think of Silent Night, visualize:

• A night filled with Christmas lights
• Lots of children around the Christmas tree, singing.

The essence is very soft, tender, and reflective of times gone by. This arrangement allows you great freedom to express rubato and enjoy every sound you make.