recommended by Ken T., Band Education Specialist
Bad Elf! by Bryce Newton, Grade 1
A humorous and creative holiday selection combining “Up on the Housetop” and “Good King Wenceslas.” Using the first six notes introduced in most method books, Bryce Newton has crafted a piece that is educational and fun for your musicians first holiday performance, The limited instrumentation works well for more mature groups with limited rehearsal time. Festive and entertaining, “Bad Elf!” will make for an entertaining addition to your next holiday program.
Festival of Carols in 6/8 Time arr. Gary Fagan, Grade 3.5
This festive holiday medley of traditional carols is arranged into 6/8 time throughout. Using holiday favorites such as “In Dolce Jubilo,” “The Sussex Carol,” “I Saw Three Ships,” “Three Kings Of Orient,” “Still, Still, Still,” “Jesu Bambino,” and “Here We Come A-Wassailing,” Gary Fagan gives us a wonderful musical addition to the holiday repertoire as well as a valuable teaching tool. The use of recognizable melodies engages prior knowledge to teach and reinforce the concept of compound meter.
Flight of Jolly Old St. Nicholas arr. John M. Pasternak, Grade 1.5
Take a midnight sleigh ride with “Flight of Jolly Old St. Nicholas” as you rock your way to the end of this piece! John M. Pasternak does it again with this wonderful new holiday chart that your ensemble and audiences will love.
Haunted Sleigh Ride arr. Brian Beck, Grade 2
“Haunted Sleigh Ride” is based on “Jingle Bells” but shifted to a minor key, transforming a winter favorite into an eerie adventure into the snowy unknown. We may not be “laughing all the way.” Brian Beck’s setting is jam-packed with various style and dynamic markings as well as accidentals in every part, challenging musicians, and engaging audiences. Shifting a piece from major to minor (or vice versa) will instantly illuminate a melody and breathe new life into a piece. What was happy is now sad, what was dark is now vibrant, and, in this case, what was cheerful is now spooky.
Joyful Tidings! arr. Patrick Roszell, Grade 2
“God Rest Ye Merry, Gentlemen,” is referred to in Charles Dicken’s 1843 novella, “A Christmas Carol.” This fresh treatment of the perennial favorite provides a variety of moods and styles from ponderous to joyous. “Joyful Tidings!” arranged by Patrick Roszell is a true fantasia for your holiday 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.
Categories: Christmas, Concert Band, New Publications, Staff Picks
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