Christmas Lullaby: Choral Octavo SoundTrax CD

The partnership of a new melody with the traditional 'O Come, Little Children' creates an accessible yet sophisticated entry point into partner songs for young choirs. The Caribbean calypso rhythm gives this piece a rhythmic and harmonic flavor distinct from typical Christmas repertoire, keeping singers engaged and giving directors something memorable to feature in winter concerts.

Warm and gently swaying, like a lullaby whispered in a tropical breeze. The calypso rhythm gives the piece a lightness and joy that feels more playful than reverent, while the combination of melodies creates a soothing yet animated energy.

Young school and church choirs, particularly groups new to partner songs or looking for accessible yet stylistically fresh Christmas repertoire. The 2-part writing makes it ideal for elementary and middle school singers who benefit from straightforward voicing without sacrificing musical interest.

• Highlight the interplay between the two melodic lines during rehearsals by having groups learn and sing each part separately before combining them; this clarifies the independence each section needs.
• Experiment with optional rhythm instruments (shakers, drums, claves) to build the island texture gradually across rehearsals, allowing singers to focus on melody and blend while small groups add percussion color.
• Use the SoundTrax CD accompaniment during performance so the piano can focus on maintaining the gentle rocking calypso feel while you attend to balance and expression in the choir.

Position this piece as a standout moment in a Christmas concert where you want to shift mood from traditional solemnity to something brighter and more contemporary in style. It pairs well with both traditional carols and modern holiday music, offering directors flexibility in concert flow and thematic programming.

• Singing in two independent parts simultaneously
• Maintaining steady rhythm in calypso/Caribbean rhythmic styles
• Blending with a piano accompaniment while tracking melodic independence
• Coordinate singing with optional percussion instruments