Gettin' In The Mood (For Christmas) (arr. Roger Emerson): SSA Choral Octavo
Gettin' In The Mood (For Christmas) (arr. Roger Emerson) Sheet Music Preview

Gettin' In The Mood (For Christmas) (arr. Roger Emerson): SSA Choral Octavo

As performed by Brian Setzer / Arranged by Roger Emerson

Item: 35-DS01439734
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Additional Details
Publisher: Hal Leonard
Page Count: 15
SKU: 35-DS01439734

More about this title

About the Artist: Brian Setzer

Brian Setzer built his reputation as the frontman of the Stray Cats, the rockabilly revival band that dominated the 1980s. Since then, he has become known for his genre-crossing work, particularly his swing and jazz interpretations of holiday classics. His approach to seasonal music combines his roots in vintage American rock and roll with a sophisticated big band sensibility, creating arrangements that feel both nostalgic and fresh.

Setzer's holiday recordings have become fixtures in the seasonal music landscape, appealing to audiences who want their Christmas music with attitude and instrumental flair. His work demonstrates how a strong artistic voice can reimagine familiar material without losing its essential warmth and appeal.

Why we love this

Roger Emerson's arrangement captures Setzer's swagger and jazz inflection in a way that fits SSA voicing beautifully. The piece brings genuine style to holiday programming without requiring a massive ensemble or elaborate staging. Your singers will actually enjoy performing something with this much personality.

What to expect

Sophisticated and swinging, with the swagger of a vintage nightclub but the warmth of a holiday celebration. The piece captures that specific moment when swing nostalgia meets modern sensibility, creating something that feels both playful and genuinely musical.

Who it's for

Choirs that want to program something energetic and stylistically sophisticated without veering into traditional Christmas carols. Groups with confident singers who can handle jazz phrasing and a touch of attitude will connect with this arrangement.

How to get the most out of it

  • Keep the swing feel bouncy and conversational rather than stiff. The rhythm section (or accompaniment) should feel loose and responsive, so shape your tempo with confidence and let the dancers breathe.
  • Balance soloists against the section carefully. This piece likely features spotlight moments for individual voices, so make sure leads can project without drowning out harmonic support.
  • Lean into the jazz articulation on short syllables. Crisp, punchy consonants and light releases keep the energy up and prevent the arrangement from sagging in the middle sections.
  • Treat the humorous or sultry moments with restraint. Let the arrangement's humor land naturally rather than overselling it with exaggerated performance choices.

How to use it

This works beautifully as a showstopper on a holiday concert, especially when surrounded by more traditional fare. It signals to your audience that you're willing to take risks with the season, and it gives your singers a moment to showcase personality and style alongside technical skill.

Skills your students will build

  • Jazz phrasing and articulation in a choral context
  • Reading syncopated rhythms and swung eighth notes
  • Balancing solo and ensemble roles
  • Maintaining rhythmic precision while conveying a relaxed, conversational feel
  • Singing with stylistic awareness across genre conventions

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