It's the Most Wonderful Time of the Year: SATB Choral Octavo
Arr. Jay Althouse
Item: 00-PO-0006735
$2.25
Minimum order quantity: 20 copies
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Description
We're all familiar with the traditional melodies of the holiday season. A very special group of more contemporary works has also become an important part of our heritage, and this upbeat and inspiring piece is a beautiful example. Jay Althouse presents a very singable treatment of this holiday classic.
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Additional Details
Series:
Alfred Archive Edition: Alfred Pop Choral Series
Publisher:
Alfred Music
Page Count:
8
SKU:
00-PO-0006735
More about this title
About the Arranger: Jay Althouse
Jay Althouse studied music education and music at Indiana University of Pennsylvania, where the institution later recognized him with its Distinguished Alumni award. His work in music publishing and administration shaped both his business acumen and his deep understanding of what choirs need to perform well. He served on the Executive Board of the Music Publishers Association of America and brings that insider perspective to every arrangement he creates.
As a composer, Althouse has written more than 800 works for choirs spanning all ability levels, and his output has earned consistent recognition from ASCAP, including multiple Special Awards for his contributions to standard choral literature. Beyond composition, he has collaborated with his wife Sally K. Albrecht on children's musicals, compiled essential vocal collections, and authored widely used classroom resources. His work with the San Francisco Girls and Boys Choirs at President Obama's 2009 inauguration demonstrates the reach and respect his choral writing commands.
Why we love this
Althouse takes a modern holiday classic and strips away unnecessary complexity without sacrificing musicality. The voicing sits comfortably for mixed choirs, the text projection feels natural, and the arrangement respects what audiences know and love about the melody while giving singers genuine interest on every staff. It's the kind of piece that lands well in December programming without requiring weeks of rehearsal.
What to expect
Warm and celebratory, this arrangement captures the genuine joy of a tune that has become woven into modern holiday tradition. The harmonies are accessible but never bland, supporting a melody that audiences recognize and singers enjoy sustaining over eight pages of genuine musical substance.
Who it's for
Intermediate to advanced mixed choirs looking for holiday repertoire that feels fresh without being complicated. This arrangement works equally well for community choirs, church choirs, and high school or college ensembles that want to include a contemporary seasonal favorite alongside traditional carols.
How to get the most out of it
- Balance the sopranos and altos on the melody so the tune stays front and center; the supporting harmonies should enhance rather than compete.
- Shape the phrase endings with slight ritards and dynamic softening to reinforce the uplifting message without making it feel mannered.
- Let the rhythm section (if accompanied) set a steady, joyful pace; this piece thrives on forward motion rather than lingering.
How to use it
Place this in the second half of a holiday concert, after you have established the concert's tone with one or two more traditional pieces. Its contemporary sensibility makes it an ideal bridge to closing numbers, and it lands with immediate audience recognition that can energize the room.
Skills your students will build
- Phrasing across longer melodic lines while maintaining ensemble blend
- SATB independence without sacrificing choral unity
- Stylistic flexibility in contemporary holiday arrangements