NEW Flexible Christmas Arrangements Tuesday, November 01, 2022
recommended by Ken T., Band Education Specialist
At the Feast of Stephen arr. Scott Watson, Grade 1
This novel setting of the traditional carol “Good King Wenceslas” will musically transport you and your students to the royal Christmas banquet hall of a medieval king! The old carol tells the story of a legendary 10th-century monarch, Duke Wenceslas of Bohemia, who went out in the severe cold to give charity to the poor on December 26, also known as St. Stephen’s Day. The well-known 13th-century tune, as well as additional original material in period style, vividly conjures a lively celebration of Christmas in the high Middle Ages.
Bell Carol Rock arr. Ryan Fraley, Grade 1.5
Rock out with this hip new version of the “Ukrainian Bell Carol!” Modern harmonies, great use of mallet instruments, and optional drum set all combine to make this a true showstopper! Incredibly colorful writing for developing bands and a modern twist on a classic!
A Christmas Fantasy arr. Paul Clark, Grade 3
This popular medley of “O Come, O Come Emmanuel” and “What Child Is This” is now available for bands with less-than-ideal instrumentation in this Build-A-Band flex ensemble version. Lyrical woodwind passages contrasting with sections of powerful brass supported by triplet rhythms in the percussion create a steamroller effect that your audiences and band will relate to and enjoy. It’s a fantastic and easy to prepare addition to your holiday concerts.
Deck the Hall arr. Lauren Taylor, Grade 2.5
Looking for a more challenging holiday flex arrangement? Featuring contemporary harmonies and rhythms to present an old favorite in a new way, this arrangement fits the bill. Using a fanfare-like ostinato and modern harmonic structures combined with the traditional melody, use this to present “Deck the Halls” in a new way while teaching contemporary interpretations and techniques.
O Come All Ye Faithful arr. Paul Clark, Grade 3
If your holiday audiences seem to have “settled down for a long winter’s nap,” you can wake them up with this exciting arrangement of a seasonal classic! Fresh harmonies and driving rhythms combine to give this holiday chestnut new life.
Of Kings and Christmas by Larry Neeck, Grade 3
This holiday medley features unique arrangements of three traditional Christmas carols: “March of the Kings,” “We Three Kings,” and “Good King Wenceslas.” A musically and educationally satisfying piece, even if the size of your band or instrumentation are limited. While the full-sounding scoring belies the reasonable technical demands of the piece, this uplifting crowd-pleaser is sure to inspire the holiday spirit in your band and audience.
O Come, O Come, Emmanuel by Claude T. Smith/arr. Joseph Benjamin Earp, Grade 3
“O Come, O Come, Emmanuel” is a Christmas prelude originally commissioned by the Papillion, Nebraska Junior High School Symphonic Band under the direction of Kenneth A. Molzer. This widely popular song relates to Advent and Christmas. Claude T. Smith expanded upon the original hymn adding deeper musical interest to this already timeless classic. This flexible arrangement allows ensembles to perform the work with as few as twelve musicians providing accessibility and flexibility for numerous instrumentation needs, while still allowing a full ensemble sound.
Oh What Fun! by James Swearingen, Grade 3
Now available in a flexible instrumentation setting, “Oh What Fun!” by James Swearingen is guaranteed to put smiles on everyone in the audience! Written in the style of a traditional march, this clever arrangement features popular tunes such as “Jingle Bells,” “I Heard The Bells On Christmas Day,” and other seasonal works. Create your own in-house parade for the children in the audience or simply use this selection as a way to welcome a special visitor from the North Pole.
On a Cold Winter’s Night arr. James Swearingen, Grade 2.5
One of James Swearingen’s most popular holiday works “On A Cold Winter’s Night” is now available in a flexible instrumentation setting in the Build-A-Band series. The holiday season magically comes alive with this creative setting of two all-time favorite carols. The accessibility of this piece will allow musicians the opportunity to quickly achieve a high level of musical performance. Tuneful melodies, beautiful harmonies, tasteful percussion make this the perfect choice for that special concert.
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About the Author:
A former band director, Ken taught grades 5-12 band and music appreciation in both public and parochial schools in Central Ohio, and has been at Stanton’s since 2004. His iPod ranges from jazz and funk to classic and alternative rock, and symphonies. His interests include reading, history, traditional amusement parks, outdoor activities (especially hiking), and watching hockey.