HO, HO, HO: New Christmas Charts for Jazz Ensemble Tuesday, October 07, 2025
recommended by Ken Tilger and Austin Swack, Band Education Specialists
Ho, Ho, Ho (Who Wouldn’t Go) arr. Steve Parsons, Grade 3
Arranger Steve Parsons scored a hit recently with his clever Christmas chart called “Sleighin’ It,” and this new arrangement picks up where that one left off. It is “Up on the Housetop” with a funky Motown groove. Wailing horn licks and a rockin’ rhythm section make this a surefire hit at your holiday concert.
Deck the Halls arr. PinkZebra, Grade 3
Unleash the holiday cheer with this exuberant and swinging jazz take on “Deck the Halls”! This playful arrangement is a quick-learn and bursts with joyful energy, featuring catchy riffs and a driving groove that will make it a sure-fire crowd pleaser at December concerts. A free jazz solo practice track is available for this arrangement and features the full band heard in the demo recording during the solo section minus the soloist.
St. Nick’s Island Vacation arr. Tim Waters, Medium Easy
This Latin treatment of “Jolly Old St. Nicholas” conjures up visions of St. Nick the day after Christmas enjoying his favorite cold beverage on tropical beach. The Alto, Tenor and Trumpet made it on the nice list with a chance to improvise during the solo section. With its infectious groove in the rhythm section and plenty of ensemble hits, this chart is fun for all!
The Holly and the Ivy arr. Jeff Jarvis, Grade 3
Jeff Jarvis has transformed this simple eight-measure carol into a full-blown jazz waltz for a big band. Jeff created a clever introduction and several transitional passages with a ton of cool chords to make the chart sound interesting and fresh from beginning to end. This will add some sparkle to your holiday concert!
You Better Sleigh! by JaRod Hall, Grade 3
This is a winter holiday musical scavenger hunt to discover – how many tunes you can find in this chart? It’s a funky swing performed in cut time around 108 BPM. Lead trumpet range is to written G with optional high C. Solos are provided for tenor 1 and trumpet 2. Optional instruments include flute and vibes. You’re gonna LOVE this one!
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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!