A Jolly, Jazzy Christmas: SATB Choral Octavo
Words and music by Douglas E. Wagner (incorporating "Deck the Hall" and "Jolly Old Saint Nicholas")
Level: Moderate
Item: 00-PO-0006811
$2.25
Minimum order quantity: 20 copies
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Description
As the title indicates, Douglas E. Wagner has incorporated a slick, jazzy feel into this original to using two favorites: "Deck the Hall" and "Jolly Old Saint Nicholas." It's a delightful light programming addition to any holiday concert.
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Additional Details
Series:
Alfred Archive Edition: Studio PR Catalog
Publisher:
Alfred Music
Page Count:
12
SKU:
00-PO-0006811
More about this title
About the Composer: Douglas E. Wagner
Douglas E. Wagner grew up in Chicago and earned degrees in music from Butler University before spending three decades as a high school music director and administrator. Since 1973, he has published more than 3,500 compositions across every ensemble type: choir, band, orchestra, handbell ensemble, organ, piano, and voice. His prolific catalog has sold over seventeen million copies worldwide and appeared regularly on concert programs and broadcasts throughout North America and internationally.
Wagner transitioned to full-time composition after his years in the classroom, bringing his deep understanding of educational music to every project. He now lives in Indianapolis with his wife, Sandy.
Why we love this
Wagner knows what works on the holiday concert stage, and this arrangement proves it. He takes two beloved melodies and wraps them in contemporary jazz harmony and rhythmic snap, giving singers something genuinely fun to sing while keeping the rehearsal load reasonable for a Moderate-level piece. The result feels fresh rather than predictable, a real contrast to the stack of straight arrangements most directors program in December.
What to expect
Sophisticated but unpretentious, with a cool ease that makes the holidays feel modern without losing their warmth. The jazzy harmonies and rhythmic drive create an evening-out-on-the-town energy rather than a solemn carol mood.
Who it's for
Singers in choral programs looking for a secular Christmas piece that has personality and snap. This arrangement welcomes both experienced singers and singers new to jazz voicings, making it ideal for mixed ability intermediate choirs.
How to get the most out of it
- Anchor the swing feel in the rhythm section and bass line; if your singers rush ahead of the groove, the jazz character collapses. Lock your soloists and section leaders to a steady pulse first.
- Shape the dynamics to match the two melodies' different moods. 'Deck the Hall' carries stately weight, while 'Jolly Old Saint Nicholas' bounces; let that contrast breathe even as you maintain the jazzy texture throughout.
- Balance the jazz harmonies so they enhance rather than muddy the melody. Have singers audition their parts against a recording or piano to catch where voices slip into the chord and disappear.
How to use it
Slot this into the middle or closing section of a holiday concert where you want to shift tone after more traditional pieces. Its lighter weight and contemporary sound pair well alongside both classical carols and modern pop arrangements.
Skills your students will build
- Reading jazz chord voicings and contemporary harmonic language
- Singing with rhythmic precision in a swing feel
- Balancing melody against jazz accompaniment textures
- Distinguishing melodic character between two familiar tunes within a unified arrangement