Hark! The Herald Tubas Sing: Concert Band Conductor Score & Parts
Arranged by Michael Sweeney
Grade: 2
Item: 35-PK00145855
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About the Arranger: Michael Sweeney
Michael Sweeney is a prolific arranger and composer whose work defines the concert band repertoire at accessible levels. His arrangements are known for their clarity, musicality, and ability to feature different sections of the ensemble in meaningful ways.
Why we love this
Sweeney understands that tuba players deserve moments in the spotlight, and this arrangement delivers exactly that without sacrificing the carol's essential character. The Grade 2 scoring keeps the rest of your band engaged while the low brass carries the melody, creating a refreshing take on a familiar tune that audiences genuinely enjoy hearing.
What to expect
A warm and playful reimagining of a beloved carol. The familiar melody sounds fresh when sung by tubas, and there's genuine joy in hearing the lower voices claim center stage for once. The arrangement respects both the carol's dignity and its capacity for gentle humor.
Who it's for
Directors with solid tuba sections who want to celebrate them on the holiday concert without programming a piece that demands high technical demands from the rest of the band. This works for typical December concerts where you need something accessible, festive, and engaging.
How to get the most out of it
- Balance the tuba melody with the harmonic support around it; the tubas sing the tune, so other voices should sit slightly under rather than competing for space.
- Work for clarity in the tuba section by isolating the melody parts in rehearsal and having non-melody tubas listen to how their harmonic lines sit beneath the lead.
- Let the character breathe in the slower sections; this isn't a novelty piece, so shape the phrases as you would any lyrical arrangement.
How to use it
Place this in the second half of your holiday concert, after a couple of conventional arrangements. It's the perfect palate cleanser that makes audiences smile and reminds them that Christmas music can surprise them. At 2:20, it fits neatly between longer works without feeling like filler.
Skills your students will build
- Tuning and blend in the tuba section
- Balancing melodic lines against harmonic accompaniment
- Shaping a familiar tune with fresh musical intent
- Concert band voicing at Grade 2 level