How do I write a simple harmony for a simple Christmas carol in A major?

Question

I'm trying to write a 3-piece harmony for Bb clarinets. The song is Jingle Bells. I'm kind of limited as the 3 musicians are at very different stages of playing (3 weeks, 1 year, 3 years) What are some ways of coming up with a nice, uncomplicated harmony?

Answer 1

Difficult to explain adequately over the web.

Obviously melody for the most experienced player. Have them start on 3rd-space C sharp, so there's room for the other two parts underneath.

The second player can play most of the notes a third lower than the melody (that means two steps down). The exception is when the 1st clarinet plays A, the 2nd clarinet should play that as well.

The third player (if they can handle it after only three weeks, and if you insist on A Major) can play half and whole notes, mainly on low A, B and C sharp. You'll have to figure out which notes harmonise best with the other two parts.

Wouldn't it be easier to slip it into G Major? Much easier on the key signature, and less for your beginner to have to deal with.

Answer 2

look it up