It Came Upon a Midnight Clear: Brass Choir Score & Parts

Beginning in shadow and mystery, the piece gradually steps into light and motion before settling into something almost ethereal. The jig section is pure momentum, a cheeky contrast that reminds listeners this carol can surprise them. By the closing, Boothe has built a journey that feels both intimate and grand.

Medium-level brass choirs looking for a carol arrangement that honors tradition while subverting expectations. This works especially well for ensembles with reliable flugelhorn players and sections confident enough to navigate stylistic contrast.

• Balance the flugelhorn's exposed passages carefully in the opening chorale; the minor tonality will expose any brightness creeping into the sound. Aim for a rounded, almost vocal quality.
• The jig section needs rhythmic precision from the entire ensemble. Mark off those syncopations clearly in parts and consider a few extra rehearsals focusing on the style shift alone.
• Shape the cinematic closing with deliberate dynamic control. This section lives in the space between sustained chords, so manage breath placement across the brass lines to avoid awkward air changes.

Place this midway through a holiday concert, after your heavier liturgical pieces but before the closing festive medley. Its three-minute arc works beautifully as a palate cleanser, and the stylistic variety will hold the audience's attention through your program's arc.

• Tonal control in minor-key passages
• Rhythmic precision in syncopated, jig-style figures
• Dynamic shaping across multi-section arrangements
• Stylistic flexibility and quick adaptation to contrasting textures
• Ensemble balance with featured solo voices (flugelhorn)