Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas: Clarinet Choir

Calvin Custer's clarinet choir arrangement captures the warmth and sophistication of this beloved standard while keeping the writing accessible for intermediate ensembles. The included rhythm section accompaniment tracks eliminate the logistical barrier of finding a working band or pianist, making this practical for rehearsal and performance. Audiences respond immediately to this melody, and your clarinet section will enjoy the musicality and blend work required to shape such a recognizable tune.

Nostalgic and intimate, with the gentle sophistication of a classic Hollywood melody translated into warm ensemble sonorities. The clarinet choir voices create a glowing, homogeneous texture that lets the familiar tune shine without bombast.

Clarinet choirs at the intermediate level, whether in school ensembles, community bands, or private studio groups. This works equally well for directors seeking a crowd-pleasing winter concert selection or for studio teachers building ensemble experience among clarinet students.

• Balance the melody across the clarinet parts rather than letting it dominate from a single player; this ensemble sound is what makes the arrangement special.
• Lean into the swing feel suggested by the series name; the rhythm section tracks model this style, so reference them during rehearsals to internalize the pocket.
• Shape the phrase endings with a gentle ritard rather than a hard stop; this song breathes, and the arrangement respects that lyrical quality.
• Control vibrato to match the warmth of the arrangement; clarinet choirs benefit from unified tone production, especially in the middle register where much of this piece sits.

Schedule this as a centerpiece for your winter concert's lighter section, or pair it with other holiday standards to build a cohesive set. The accessibility of the melody and the included accompaniment tracks make this ideal for a mid-concert moment that rewards both performers and listeners.

• Blend and balance in homogeneous ensemble voicing
• Swing phrasing and rhythmic pocket feel
• Shaping lyrical phrases with dynamic control
• Playing melody and countermelody roles within the same choir
• Responding to rhythm section accompaniment in real time