Christmas Valentine: SATB Choral Octavo
Words and music by Dave Barnes, Ingrid Michaelson, and Jason Mraz / arr. Andy Beck
Item: 00-PO-0006640
$2.25
Minimum order quantity: 20 copies
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Description
Looking for a fresh Christmastime charmer with just a touch of romance? Here's a sweet Ingrid Michaelson and Jason Mraz duet about the magic of love during the holidays. A light swing tempo plus some warm and fuzzy chords harken nostalgic feelings, while delightfully wholesome lyrics add a flirtatious wink. "I wanna make every day a holiday with you." A wonderful change of pace for seasonal programs.
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Additional Details
Series:
Alfred Pop Choral Series
Publisher:
Alfred Music
Page Count:
16
SKU:
00-PO-0006640
More about this title
About the Composer: Dave Barnes
Dave Barnes is a Nashville-based singer-songwriter and composer whose work spans across pop, folk, and contemporary music. He has collaborated extensively with other artists and contributed to numerous film and television projects, bringing his distinctive melodic sensibility to a wide range of musical contexts.
Why we love this
Andy Beck's arrangement captures the infectious charm of the original duet while giving your choir room to shine vocally. The swing tempo and rich harmonic language make this feel contemporary without sacrificing ensemble warmth, and it's exactly the kind of secular holiday selection that breaks up longer Christmas programs with genuine style.
What to expect
Warm and playful, with the comfort of a cozy winter evening wrapped around a lighthearted romantic notion. The swing groove brings infectious energy while the harmonic language feels intimate and nostalgic, creating a musical environment where holiday joy and genuine affection feel genuinely intertwined.
Who it's for
This octavo works beautifully for choirs seeking contemporary holiday repertoire with crossover appeal. It suits intermediate-level ensembles comfortable with swing rhythm and modern pop textures, and it's especially effective for programs aiming for variety beyond traditional carols.
How to get the most out of it
- Lean into the swing feel by keeping the rhythm section locked and bouncy; resist the urge to drag the tempo, especially in the verse sections.
- Balance the SAT voices against the basses so the harmonic movement remains clear without overpowering the melody line.
- Let the text breathe during the romantic moments, particularly around "I wanna make every day a holiday with you," to let the lyrical sentiment land.
- Use the recorded accompaniment to establish the groove and guide ensemble entrances, especially if your singers are new to swing interpretation.
How to use it
Program this as a palate cleanser between heavier seasonal selections or as the opening number to signal that your concert will embrace modern sensibilities alongside tradition. Its approachable melodic content and uplifting message also make it an excellent choice for community holiday performances where accessibility matters.
Skills your students will build
- Singing in a swing feel with appropriate rhythmic swing and articulation
- Balancing melody and harmony within a contemporary pop texture
- Sustaining intonation over extended chord progressions with chromatic movement
- Interpreting lyrical emotion through vocal tone and phrasing in a secular context