Holiday Jazz!: 2-Part Choral Octavo
Words by John Jacobson, music by Kirby Shaw
Item: 00-PO-0006952
$2.05
Minimum order quantity: 20 copies
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Description
One part Jacobson creativity, and one part Kirby jazz. Kids will adore this chart that's not only a fresh holiday feature, but also a solid introduction to beginning scat singing. Designed with developing groups in mind, but enjoyable for any one. Perform with the swingin' SoundTrax or a live rhythm section (guitar, bass, and drumset SoundPax). As a special bonus, John's choreography is printed in the music.
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Additional Details
Series:
Alfred Choral Designs
Publisher:
Alfred Music
Page Count:
12
SKU:
00-PO-0006952
More about this title
About the Composer: Kirby Shaw
Kirby Shaw's influence spans choral education across six continents, from his early work in Mt. Shasta public schools to his founding of the acclaimed COS Vocal Jazz Ensemble at College of the Siskiyous. He holds degrees in Music Education and Choral Composition from San Jose State University and a DMA in Choral Conducting from the University of Washington. His teaching style blends rigorous musicianship with infectious humor and deep pedagogical insight.
A prolific composer and arranger with over 2500 works in print, Shaw has sold nearly 20 million copies of his choral music worldwide. He has studied jazz singing directly with Bobby McFerrin, Mark Murphy, Chris Calloway, Al Jarreau, and Jon Hendricks—the latter once remarking, "Man, you don't make mistakes!" Shaw has also directed vocal jazz ensembles at Colorado State University and the University of Missouri at Kansas City, overseen hundreds of educational recordings, and earned multiple ASCAP awards. He is a performing member of Just 4 Kicks, a jazz a cappella quartet.
Why we love this
This chart delivers genuine jazz vocabulary without overwhelming developing singers. Shaw's ear for what young voices can handle shines through—the scat is accessible and fun rather than intimidating, and the two-part writing leaves room for each student to find their place. Adding printed choreography transforms it from a polished arrangement into a full performance moment that feels contemporary and celebratory.
What to expect
Fresh, playful, and swinging. This is a holiday arrangement that sounds like today's music rather than yesterday's traditions. The scat singing adds a conversational, almost improvisational energy that makes holiday programming feel current and engaging.
Who it's for
This octavo works perfectly for middle school and early high school choirs seeking a contemporary holiday feature with real musicianship. Developing groups will find the two-part voicing and guided scat introduction manageable, while mature ensembles will appreciate the jazz sophistication and staging element.
How to get the most out of it
- Begin rehearsals with the recorded accompaniment so singers hear the groove and scat style before drilling parts. This aural model prevents the arrangement from feeling like a traditional hymn.
- Isolate the scat sections in small groups first. Let singers shadow a confident voice or the recorded track until they feel the jazz articulation and phrasing, not just the notes.
- Integrate the choreography early rather than adding it at the end. Movement clarifies phrasing and builds confidence, especially for singers hesitant about scat singing.
- If performing with a live rhythm section, schedule at least two full rehearsals with the band. The groove and communication between choir and rhythm section elevate the whole arrangement.
How to use it
Program this as your December concert's contemporary closer or upbeat second-act opener. It pairs well alongside traditional carols or other pops arrangements, and its built-in choreography makes it ideal for combined concerts or informal performances where staging enhances the festive mood.
Skills your students will build
- Beginning scat singing and jazz vocalization
- Swing rhythm and jazz phrasing in a choral context
- Two-part blending with independence of voice parts
- Rhythmic precision and syncopation
- Coordination of singing and choreographed movement