Pictures of the Holidays Wednesday, November 06, 2019
recommended by Ken T., Band Education Specialist
As All the Angels Sing by Rob Romeyn, Grade 2.5
Based on the traditional carol “Angels From The Realms of Glory,” “As All The Angels Sing” is the perfect opening or closing statement for your holiday concert! The sparkling introductory theme is creatively enhanced by snippets of other festive, well known carols, leading to a heartfelt setting of “Still, Still, Still” that is simply beautiful. The music then ends as it began, festive and strong. Varied instrumental colors and contrasting styles are musically rewarding, and will make this selection a favorite of bands from younger levels all the way up to adult community groups. Let the holiday season begin!
Christmas Carol Trilogy arr. Russell Robinson & Michael J. Miller, Grade 2.5
Christmas Carol Trilogy includes the three beloved favorites, “O Come All Ye Faithful”, “Greensleeves”, and “Joy to the World”. This band arrangement can be played alongside Robinson’s vocal arrangements of the same name — but is also wonderful as a stand-alone piece. Perfect for your seasonal concert needs, all who listen will be embraced by the warmth and joy of the holiday season.
We Wish You a Klezmer Christmas arr. Lauren Bernofsky, Grade 2.5
Christmas and Chanukah faiths collide in this hilarious yet musically satisfying work! Four popular Christmas melodies are set in four distinct and characteristic klezmer styles (with entertaining musical commentary along the way). Of course, the Dreidel Song makes a cameo appearance at the end. Tons of fun and wildly entertaining!
Carols! Pictures of the Holidays arr. David Shaffer, Grade 3
How can you make Christmas carols exciting and fun? Add lots of percussion, of course! “Carols” is a medley of “God Bless Ye Merry Gentleman,” “The Holly and the Ivy,” “He is Born, the Holy Child,” and “O Come, All Ye Faithful.” Driving percussion, exciting harmonies and African drumming styles are combined to bring this arrangement together in a setting that will delight your audiences. Lots of fun for your students to prepare as well!
Celtic Holy Night arr. Robert W. Smith, Grade 3
The holy night of Christmas is celebrated in many cultures throughout the world. Robert W. Smith gives us a new arrangement of the classic carol “O Holy Night” in a Celtic style. Following a beautiful introductory statement, the Irish musical roots come to the fore through percussion and flutes as they create an Irish jig. The clarinets present the melody in the beautiful chalumeau register juxtaposed against the jig. The arrangement builds throughout leading to a very exciting conclusion that is decidedly an Irish celebration. Very highly recommended!
Santa’s Workshop Samba arr. Bryce Newton, Grade 3
Based around the popular holiday melody “Toyland”, Bryce Newton’s entertaining take on the elves at work is sure to be a hit! An exceptional change of pace from traditional holiday fare, your students will have a blast putting this one together for their holiday assemblies or concerts. Keep an ear out for several familiar holiday melodies the mischievous elves have woven throughout. Lots of fun!
Find more for Christmas and winter holidays on our website, or contact us to brainstorm more ideas. Shop Stanton’s for all your sheet music needs!
About the Author:
A former band director, Ken taught grade 5-12 band and music appreciation in both public and parochial schools in central Ohio. His iPod ranges from jazz to classic and alternative rock, symphonies, and classic songs from Sesame Street and Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood. His interests include comic books, traditional amusement parks, the Muppets, football and hockey (especially the Steelers and Penguins), and all things Pittsburgh.