Bethlehem Down (Brass Band) Peter Warlock arr. Karl Whelan

Published by BrookWright Music - www.brookwrightmusic.com

PDFs available from www.brookwrightmusic.com/product-page/bethlehem-down-brass-band-peter-warlock-arr-karl-whelan

Sheet music available at www.brassband.co.uk (UK) or www.cimarronmusic.com (USA)

Originally composed in 1927 by Peter Warlock with a hauntingly beautiful text by Bruce Blunt, Bethlehem Down is a Christmas carol unlike any other - serene, contemplative, and deeply moving. Written under unconventional circumstances (as an entry in a newspaper competition to fund a festive drinking session), the carol has become a timeless masterpiece of English choral music, celebrated for its emotional depth and harmonic subtlety.

This brass band arrangement by Karl Whelan captures the quiet intensity and modal richness of Warlock’s original, thoughtfully adapted for the warm, lyrical textures of a full brass ensemble. Flowing inner lines, gentle dissonances, and soft dynamics are carefully preserved, allowing the ensemble to explore a wide expressive range while maintaining the dignity and introspective tone of the piece.

Ideal for concerts, church services, or as a moment of reflection within a festive programme, Bethlehem Down offers a powerful contrast to more jubilant seasonal works. A compelling choice for bands seeking a more intimate and profound interpretation of the Christmas story.

Difficulty Level: 3rd Section +

Audio demo created using Brass Band Soloists by Fracture Sounds, Berlin Series by Orchestral Tools and BBC Symphony Orchestra by Spitfire.

Mixed by Andrew Wainwright.