I Want A Hippopotamus For Christmas (arr. Larry Moore): String Orchestra Conductor Score & Parts

Bright, silly, and completely unapologetic about wanting a hippopotamus. The orchestration bounces between pizzicato grooves and swaying melodic sections, creating moments of genuine playfulness interspersed with just enough harmonic sophistication to keep it interesting for the musicians.

Intermediate string orchestras looking for a holiday concert anchor that works for audiences of all ages. This arrangement is equally at home in a family concert, school holiday assembly, or festive pops program where you need something high energy but musically legitimate.

• Keep the tempo bouncy and light. This arrangement thrives on rhythmic clarity, so lock in the pizzicato sections first and let the ensemble hear how the groove supports the melody.
• Balance the divisi passages carefully so no single line overwhelms the texture. Young string players often push when given independence; remind them that blend matters even when each desk has its own part.
• Lean into the humor. This is a novelty song with legitimate charm. Permission to be playful and slightly over the top will loosen up the ensemble and make the audience laugh with you, not at you.

Position this in the second half of a concert or as a finale to lift the mood after more serious repertoire. It works beautifully as a palate cleanser between dramatic selections or as a crowd pleaser that sends the audience out smiling. One rehearsal near performance date is usually all you need.

• Rhythmic precision in pizzicato passages
• Dynamic contrast between articulated and sustained sections
• Balancing divided voices in ensemble texture
• Maintaining tempo and groove in a contemporary arrangement
• Melodic projection with character and personality