A Carol of Two Mangers: Concert Band Conductor Score & Parts

$44.00 USD

A Carol of Two Mangers: Concert Band Conductor Score & Parts

Name: A Carol of Two Mangers: Concert Band Conductor Score & Parts
Brand: Alfred Music
SKU: 00-23289
Price: 44.00 USD
Availability: InStock

Arr. Robert Sheldon

Grade: 1.5 (Easy)

Item: 00-23289

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This delightful and gentle holiday selection combines the two most familiar melodies associated with the Christmas carol, "Away in the Manger." Each melody is introduced and played alone, then played simultaneously at the end of the piece. This lovely setting exudes warmth and expression, making this a rather sophisticated yet very playable program selection.

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Series: Challenger Band Series

Publisher: Alfred Music

Page Count: 118

UPC: 038081259680

SKU: 00-23289

More about this title

About the Arranger: Robert Sheldon

Robert Sheldon's arrangements and original compositions appear on concert stages worldwide and consistently show up on festival and contest programs at every level. His work is defined by craftsmanship that respects the capabilities of student ensembles while never condescending to them; his music asks something of the players without asking too much.

Sheldon has guest conducted All-State and Regional Honor Bands across the United States and internationally, including appearances in Japan, Canada, Italy, Germany, Australia, and China. His works have been performed at Carnegie Hall, Orchestra Hall in Chicago, Boston Symphony Hall, the Sydney Opera House, and the Kennedy Center. He received an honorary doctorate from VanderCook College of Music in 2020 and continues to accept commissions and produce new publications for concert band regularly.

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Why we love this

Sheldon recognizes what makes 'Away in the Manger' so enduring: not one melody, but two equally beloved versions that coexist in the ears of audiences everywhere. Rather than choosing between them, he lets both shine independently before weaving them together—a structural choice that feels surprising and inevitable at once. The Grade 1.5 scoring means your band can execute this with genuine expression, and the warmth of the arrangement will resonate with holiday audiences without resorting to sentimentality.

What to expect

Quiet and meditative, with the warmth of a carol sung by candlelight rather than in a crowd. The piece has an intimate quality despite the full band texture, inviting the audience into a moment of reflection rather than celebration.

Who it's for

Beginning and developing concert bands that need repertoire with genuine musical substance for a winter concert. This arrangement works beautifully for ensembles seeking a holiday piece that feels sophisticated without demanding advanced technical skills from every section.

How to get the most out of it

Balance the first melody statement between the woodwinds and brass carefully; this is your chance to establish the gentle character before the second melody enters.
When both melodies play simultaneously, resist the urge to push tempo or dynamics. The beauty lies in the clarity of both lines without overcrowding the texture.
Shape each melodic statement with subtle dynamic shaping rather than obvious swells. The piece rewards restraint and control from your ensemble.

How to use it

This works perfectly as the opening selection for a winter concert, establishing an atmosphere of calm before moving to more energetic holiday fare. It also serves well as a closer on a concert that needs a reflective final statement. The piece requires only standard instrumentation, making it accessible for most school bands.

Skills your students will build

Sustained tone production and breath control over whole phrases
Reading and playing a single melody with musical expression rather than technical display
Balancing two independent melodic lines when they occur simultaneously
Understanding how harmonic arrangement supports and enhances a familiar melody