Too Cool for Yule! 2024 Holiday Titles for Jazz Band Friday, September 20, 2024
recommended by Ken Tilger and Austin Swack, Band Education Specialists
Too Cool for Yule arr. Larry Clark, Grade 1
Everything you need for your holiday concert is here in this creative medley of carols…all wrapped up with a bow! Titles include: “Jingle Bells,” “Deck the Halls,” and “Hark! the Herald Angels Sing.”
Rejoice! (Based on O Come, O Come, Emmanuel) arr. Anthony Susi, Grade 1.5
As a follow-up to his popular arrangement of “Coventry Carol,” arranger Tony Susi has taken “O Come, O Come, Emmanuel” and crafted it into a spirited Latin-rock arrangement called “Rejoice!” Great minor harmony surrounds the classic carol melody.
Santa Claus Is Coming to Town arr. Paul Murtha, Grade 3
The Jackson 5 put an entirely different spin on this Christmas classic with their popular hit recording from 1970. This chart for young bands features the energetic pop groove, plenty of scoring variety, and an optional vocal part just for fun.
Go, Swing It on the Mountain arr. Peter Blair, Grade 1.5
Opening with an eight measure brass chorale, the chart settles into a laid back swing groove that shows off all the sections of the band. Clever harmony surrounds the familiar melody that gives it a fresh sound. The brass chorale returns later in the chart and it sets up the imaginative modulation that takes the chart out.
Good King Wences-Swings! arr. Larry Neeck, Grade 3
Here’s an inventive and swinging take on a classic holiday carol! “Good King Wences-Swings!” opens with a bright, full-ensemble introduction, leading into a sparkling interplay of melody between solo piano and the full band. The varied use of instrumental colors and keys keeps the piece lively and interesting. The open solo section (suggested solos are included) with its full ensemble backgrounds will support and encourage your soloists. Swinging riffs, powerful ensemble scoring, and supportive backgrounds will have your band sounding at its finest by the final shout chorus, and your audience will be on their feet! Terrific!
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About the Authors:
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.
Austin Swack joined the Stanton’s team after a decade of teaching band in Texas public schools, where his ensembles were consistently recognized for superior performance. He is equally at home with beginner and advanced students and has extensive experience programming for ensembles at all ability levels. Additionally, he is a versatile arranger as well as an experienced clinician and adjudicator. In his free time, Austin enjoys running, cycling, and cheering on the Blue Jackets!