Away from the Mistletoe Sheet Music Preview

Away from the Mistletoe: 3-Part Mixed Choral Octavo

Words and music by Andy Beck and Brian Fisher

Item: 00-PO-0000376

Digital Download
$1.75

Minimum order quantity: 20 copies

Description
A knock-out, rock-out novelty number for 3- and 2-part choirs! What's worse than coal in your stocking? Getting caught under the mistletoe! This silly song features humorous words and 60s-style music poking fun at the age-old holiday tradition. "I really like Christmas, but I don't like kissing at all . . . yuck!" Choreography featured on "Razzamatazz!" DVD (item 00-27430).

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Additional Details
Series: Alfred Choral Designs
Publisher: Alfred Music
Page Count: 12
SKU: 00-PO-0000376

More about this title

About the Composer: Andy Beck

Andy Beck

Andy Beck directs choral publications at Alfred Music while maintaining an active composing and arranging career. His catalog includes more than 450 choral works and vocal resources for singers of all ages, alongside pedagogical titles like Sing at First Sight and Vocalize! 45 Vocal Warm-Ups That Teach Technique. His compositions reach choirs across the globe, and he regularly appears as a guest conductor, choreographer, and clinician at honor choirs and all-state festivals, particularly throughout the Southeast.

Beyond his editorial role, Beck remains deeply engaged in performance and music education. He holds a Bachelor's degree in Music Education from Ithaca College and a Master's degree from Northwest Missouri State University, and he brings both credentials and experience to his work as a tenor, musical theatre director, and member of the North Carolina Master Chorale Chamber Choir. Since 1992, he has also recorded extensively as a studio singer for Alfred Music.

Why we love this

This piece delivers exactly what a mixed choir needs in the concert rotation: genuine humor that lands, musical energy that keeps rehearsals fun, and accessibility that doesn't require weeks of preparation. The 60s rock style gives directors a chance to explore a different musical language while the movement and staging options let students bring personality and physical comedy to the performance.

What to expect

Playful and cheeky, with a 60s rock backdrop that feels both retro and timeless. The lyrics invite singers to connect with something universally relatable (the awkwardness of mistletoe) through a musical lens that's upbeat and unapologetic.

Who it's for

Mixed choirs of high school age and above who can handle both the vocal demands and the comedic timing required for this novelty number. The piece works equally well for show choirs seeking a fun, crowd-pleasing addition or traditional choirs wanting to stretch beyond standard repertoire.

How to get the most out of it

  • Lean into the rock groove with clear articulation on the rhythmic figures; let the rhythm section lock in first, then layer in the vocal lines for tight ensemble sound.
  • Embrace the humor in the lyrics and encourage singers to commit to facial expressions and character choices during the choreographed sections.
  • Reference the 'Razzamatazz!' DVD for movement ideas, then adapt the staging to fit your choir's comfort level and performance space.
  • Keep the energy consistent throughout; this style thrives on momentum, so avoid letting tempos drag during held notes or dialogue sections.

How to use it

Program this as a first-half closer or early second-half opener to energize your concert and shift the mood after more serious repertoire. It pairs naturally with other lighter seasonal pieces and gives audiences a moment of laughter before returning to traditional carol selections or more substantial arrangements.

Skills your students will build

  • Rhythmic precision in a rock/pop style
  • Blend and balance across three parts with varying vocal ranges
  • Interpretation and comedic timing in choral performance
  • Coordination of singing with movement and staging
  • Part independence within an ensemble texture

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