Gettin' in the Mood (for Christmas): Choral Octavo SoundTrax CD

Larry Shackley's arrangement captures the infectious energy of the original swing classic while seamlessly integrating holiday lyrics, giving your singers a recognizable tune that audiences love while keeping the December concert fresh and swinging. The inclusion of optional horn parts means you can expand this beyond voices alone, building excitement with full instrumental texture.

The arrangement swings with the irreverent joy of a 1940s dance hall, all infectious rhythm and bright horn colors. Holiday lyrics rest comfortably over the propulsive groove, creating a festive celebration that feels contemporary and timeless at once.

Choirs seeking upbeat holiday repertoire with built-in audience appeal will find this arrangement accessible and genuinely fun to perform. It works equally well for high school, college, and community ensembles comfortable with swing style and looking to program something beyond traditional carols.

• Lean into the laid-back swing feel rather than rushing the pulse; the arrangement's character lives in relaxed, behind-the-beat phrasing.
• Use the recorded accompaniment during rehearsals to lock the ensemble into the groove, then gradually reduce its use as confidence builds.
• Balance the vocal lines so the melody reads clearly over the swinging rhythmic backdrop; too much section volume muddies the tunefulness.
• If adding the horn parts, ensure they have the swing articulation and weight that matches the original big band tradition.

Feature this as an opener or closer for your December concert to energize the audience and give your singers a chance to celebrate the season with style. It pairs beautifully alongside more traditional holiday fare, offering a refreshing contrast that reminds listeners holiday music has many moods.

• Swing articulation and phrasing in a choral context
• Rhythmic precision in ensemble singing with syncopated accompaniment
• Balancing melody and harmony within a rhythmically driven arrangement
• Stylistic flexibility when layering vocals with instrumental colors