Dancing in Bethlehem: SAB Choral Octavo
Words by Cathryne E. Parks, music by Gary E. Parks
Item: 00-PO-0000997
$1.80
Minimum order quantity: 20 copies
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Description
Join the dance of nativity visitors by singing this lilting Christmas choral in 3/4 time. A graceful melody glides effortlessly over the jaunty accompaniment, which includes several sweet jazz sonorities. An optional tambourine part is included.
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Additional Details
Series:
Alfred Choral Designs
Publisher:
Alfred Music
Page Count:
12
SKU:
00-PO-0000997
More about this title
About the Composer: Gary E. Parks
Gary E. Parks has built a reputation as a versatile composer and arranger with a gift for creating accessible yet musically sophisticated choral works. His compositions span sacred and secular genres, consistently balancing singable melodies with interesting harmonic color and contemporary musical elements that engage both singers and audiences.
Why we love this
Parks writes for choir with genuine warmth and accessibility. The 3/4 meter and melodic grace make this feel immediate and singable without sacrificing harmonic interest, while the jazz-inflected accompaniment gives directors something distinctive to work with at the holiday concert.
What to expect
This piece captures the gentle movement and wonder of the nativity story through its lilting 3/4 meter and graceful melody. The jazz-tinged accompaniment brings a modern warmth to the carol, creating a reflective yet joyful soundscape that feels both reverent and accessible.
Who it's for
Three-part mixed choirs and community ensembles looking for contemporary Christmas repertoire that sits comfortably in intermediate ranges. The straightforward SAB voicing works well for choirs with developing musicianship who want to sing something harmonically interesting without extreme technical demands.
How to get the most out of it
- Balance the SAB voicing carefully so the soprano melody floats above the alto and baritone parts; the accompaniment's jaunty character can easily overshadow lighter voices.
- Rehearse the jazz sonorities in the piano part separately with your singers so they understand how the harmonic color supports the lyrical melody.
- If you use the optional tambourine, have that player lock in with the accompaniment's rhythmic pulse rather than the vocal line; it anchors the groove.
- Shape the melodic phrases with gentle dynamic arcs; the lilting quality depends on avoiding a static approach to the song's contours.
How to use it
Slot this into a Christmas concert as a melodic anchor between more energetic carols or heavier sacred works. Its moderate length and clear emotional character make it an ideal choice for mixed programming, especially in settings where you want to highlight contemporary choral writing alongside traditional repertoire.
Skills your students will build
- Singing in 3/4 meter with rhythmic confidence
- Blending three-part harmony while maintaining independent vocal lines
- Shaping lyrical melodies across phrases
- Responding to jazz-inflected harmonic color and accompaniment texture