David Lantz III brings classroom experience directly into his compositional work as a full time vocal music teacher in Pennsylvania's public school system. With nearly 500 published pieces across major American publishers, he has established himself across multiple genres: sacred and secular choral music, orchestral and band works, jazz ensembles, and chamber combinations.
Beyond composing, Lantz maintains active roles as a church choir director, music editor and engraver, and performing musician in pop and jazz settings. He and his wife, composer Marti Lunn Lantz, raised five musical children in northeastern Pennsylvania, creating a household where music remains both profession and daily practice.
Why we love this
Lantz understands what works in the rehearsal room because he spends his days teaching in one. This octavo balances accessibility with genuine musical substance, giving your singers a Christmas piece that feels contemporary without sacrificing the reverent character the season calls for. The collaboration with J. Paul Williams brings an additional voice to the arranging, resulting in scoring that sits naturally across SATB ranges.
What to expect
The piece radiates celebratory warmth grounded in reverence. Dense harmonic writing creates an almost orchestral fullness, while the text setting keeps the music from becoming overwrought, giving singers and listeners room to feel the meaning alongside the sound.
Who it's for
This arrangement serves choirs ranging from solid high school to capable community ensembles seeking a Christmas offering with liturgical weight. It works equally well for concert settings and church services where both musical craft and spiritual substance matter.
How to get the most out of it
Establish the harmonic foundation early in rehearsals by working through the four-part writing without the text, which clarifies voice leading and prevents doubling confusion.
Shape the dynamic arc across the full 15 pages rather than thinking in isolated sections; this creates forward momentum through what could otherwise feel episodic.
Let the text inform your vowel unification and consonant placement, particularly during ensemble moments where clarity of the sacred message matters most.
How to use it
Position this as your anchor sacred Christmas work if your season balances secular festive pieces with spiritually centered selections. Its 15 pages and moderate difficulty make it suitable for the final third of your rehearsal calendar, allowing time to polish the harmonic detail without rushing.
Skills your students will build
Four-part harmonic awareness and balance in mixed voicing
Sustained phrase singing with attention to text underlay
Dynamic shaping across extended sections
Ensemble precision in sacred style singing
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