Candles of Hanukkah: 2-Part Choral Octavo

Donnelly and Strid have crafted a piece that feels authentically Hanukkah without relying on novelty or forced cuteness. The 2-part writing is genuinely singable, allowing young voices to focus on expressive phrasing rather than wrestling with complex harmony, while the piano accompaniment supports without overwhelming. This lands perfectly for directors needing seasonal repertoire that students will actually enjoy singing.

Warm and familiar, this piece settles into the traditional sounds of Hanukkah with gentle storytelling. The simplicity of the part writing creates space for singers to inhabit the text and connect with the symbols of candles and dreidel, making the piece feel intimate rather than decorative.

This piece serves middle school and upper elementary choirs seeking accessible yet musically solid winter repertoire. It works equally well for 2-part mixed choirs and treble choirs, making it flexible for schools with varied ensemble configurations.

• Balance the storytelling. The dreidel imagery invites playfulness, but keep the tone grounded in the traditional Hanukkah sound so the piece doesn't veer into novelty territory.
• Shape the candle imagery musically by letting dynamics breathe. As singers trace the progression of eight candles being lit, gradual dynamic growth can reinforce the metaphor without explicit direction.
• Support the piano part during rehearsals with careful phrasing cues. A light touch on the accompaniment will keep the focus on the choir while maintaining rhythmic clarity.

Slot this into winter concerts as a standalone piece or as part of a larger interfaith or multicultural program. Its 8-page length and straightforward demands make it realistic for directors balancing multiple ensemble needs during the busiest rehearsal season.

• Two-part harmonic awareness and blend
• Sustaining legit singing through simple melodic lines
• Text expression and storytelling in a holiday context
• Confidence in parts without heavy technical demands