Deck the Yard! New CONCERT BAND Titles for Holiday & Christmas Thursday, September 18, 2025
recommended by Ken Tilger and Austin Swack, Band Education Specialists
Deck the Yard! (Ode to Outdoor Holiday Decorations) arr. Timothy Loest, Grade 1.5
This delightful medley by Timothy Loest captures the spirit of the season while paying homage to outdoor holiday decorations. Whether “Up on the Housetop” or watching a neighborhood “Parade of the Wooden Soldiers,” audiences will enjoy other gems including “Jolly Old St. Nicholas,” “Deck the Halls,” and “O Tannenbaum.” “Deck the Yard!” also provides the opportunity to use holiday decor in the performance venue or project photos of neighborhood homes!
Light the Menorah! arr. Evan VanDoren, Grade 4
Join in a vibrant celebration of Hanukkah! Colorful, lush harmonies give way to a rousing, lively dance sure to get the audience to its feet! “Ner Li” (I have a candle), “Hanukkah, Oh Hanukkah,” and “Hava Nagila” (Let us rejoice) blend together into a musical tapestry embodying the joy and rich traditions of the holiday. Invite your audience to “Light The Menorah” at your next winter concert!
Christmas Lullaby arr. Matthew R. Putnam, Grade 2
A duet of classics reaches a festive peak in this new arrangement by Matthew R. Putnam. An unusually effective melodic pairing, this new work will be a perfect fit for Christmastime programs. Includes: “Away in a Manger” and Brahms’ “Lullaby.”
Christmas Vacation arr. Paul Murtha, Grade 3
This fantastic and accessible arrangement of the opening song to the now holiday classic movie “National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation” will be a fun addition to your holiday program.
The First Noel arr. Yukiko Nishimura, Grade 3
Bring a fresh and jazzy twist to your holiday program with this gorgeous arrangement of the beloved carol. Featuring vibrant harmonies and accessible rhythms, this piece is perfect for intermediate-level musicians. The intro alone is worth the price of admission.
With Joyful Tidings arr. Steve Parsons, Grade 3.5
Experience the radiant warmth and boundless cheer of the holiday season with Steve Parsons’ “With Joyful Tidings,” an enchanting Concert Band composition that captures the spirit of celebration and goodwill. From the triumphant fanfares of the brass to the delicate shimmer of the strings, “With Joyful Tidings” radiates with the infectious energy of the season, infusing every note with a sense of wonder and delight. Whether performed in a grand concert hall, a cozy community auditorium, or a festive outdoor setting, this enchanting composition fills the air with the timeless beauty and joyous spirit of the holidays.
Mechanical Monsters: Mech the Halls! by Randall Standridge, Grade 1
The Mechanical Monsters return in an explosive holiday crossover with Santa the Barbarian; “Mechanical Monsters: Mech the Halls!” by holiday madman, Randall Standridge. Fueled by a frenzy of minor-mode carols – including “Deck the Halls,” “Jingle Bells,” “Up on the Housetop,” and “Dance of the Sugar Plum Fairy” – this delightfully demented sequel continues the saga of seasonal mayhem. Combining the mechanical madness of the original with Santa’s twisted workshop energy, this piece features quirky percussion, mechanical effects, and just the right amount of chromatic chaos. Add a narration opportunity for administrator or other school star, and you’ve got the blueprint for a holiday hit!
A Winter’s Journey by Randall Standridge, Grade 3.5
Take your band over the river and through the wood with “A Winter’s Journey,” an exciting new winter work by Randall Standridge. Incorporating themes from the classic winter melody, this compound meter piece explodes with energy and joy as it depicts a sleigh ride across a snowy landscape. Driving rhythms, colorful percussion, and soaring melodies combine to create a festive secular work – perfect for your next winter concert or festival performance!
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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!