Deckin' the Hall: Jazz Ensemble Conductor Score & Parts
Old Welsh Air / arr. George Vincent
Grade: 0.5 (Very Easy)
Item: 00-PK-0002539
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Description
This clever arrangement of Deckin' the Hall will fascinate both your ensemble and audience. Composer/arranger George Vincent has scored it to sound full even with reduced instrumentation. In addition, optional parts have been provided for added flexibility including two flutes and two clarinets. It begins with the famous two-measure "Jingle Bells" motive and quickly lays the groundwork for Deckin' the Hall in a rock style. Win-win!
Don't just read it, hear it, play along with it, and watch your students grow with it. In MakeMusic Cloud, Deckin' the Hall: Jazz Ensemble Conductor Score & Parts comes alive with professional accompaniment, adjustable tempo, and built-in practice tools that turn solo practice into real progress.
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Additional Details
Series:
Jazz Beginnings Series
Publisher:
Alfred Music
Page Count:
44
SKU:
00-PK-0002539
More about this title
Why we love this
George Vincent writes with a clear understanding of what beginning jazz ensembles can actually execute. The arrangement opens with the instantly recognizable two-measure 'Jingle Bells' hook, then shifts seamlessly into a rock-inflected take on 'Deckin' the Hall' that sounds polished without demanding virtuosity. The optional flute and clarinet parts mean you can voice this richly whether you have a full section or just a few players.
What to expect
A playful collision of holiday nostalgia and contemporary groove. The familiar 'Jingle Bells' fragment anchors the opening, but George Vincent's rock-style treatment keeps the energy modern and propulsive rather than traditional or sleepy.
Who it's for
Grade 0.5 ensembles tackling their first jazz charts, as well as directors seeking accessible holiday repertoire that still swings. The reduced difficulty and optional parts make this approachable for younger or less experienced players while keeping the arrangement musically satisfying.
How to get the most out of it
- Lock in the rock groove during the main theme section. The ensemble will sound tighter if the rhythm section treats this less like a jazz swing feel and more like a contemporary pop-rock pocket.
- Balance the 'Jingle Bells' motive in the opening so it cuts through clearly. This iconic phrase is your audience's entry point; make sure the lead voice isn't buried in the mix.
- Consider doubling optional parts with your core instrumentation if you have the players. This arrangement was designed to sound full either way, but the extra colors add dimension without complicating the performance.
How to use it
This works perfectly as a jazz ensemble opener on a holiday concert, especially when you want something that engages both young listeners and seasoned audiences. The short length and straightforward feel also make it an ideal closer for a winter band concert if you're looking to send the crowd out smiling.
Skills your students will build
- Reading jazz ensemble instrumentation and voicing
- Recognizing and executing a rock-style groove
- Balancing melody and accompaniment in a jazz context
- Playing with reduced instrumentation and optional parts