Kris Kringle's Kazoos: Choral Octavo SoundTrax CD

Donnelly and Strid have perfected the art of the novelty number that actually entertains both singers and audiences. The kazoo integration here feels organic rather than gimmicky, and weaving in three familiar carols gives young singers something concrete to anchor their learning while they're having fun with an unusual instrument.

Playful and imaginative, with the kind of humor that lands with both kids and adults. The familiar carol snippets provide musical grounding, while the kazoo element brings a lighthearted, almost mischievous energy that feels like peeking into Santa's workshop through a child's eyes.

Elementary and middle school choirs looking for a secular holiday piece that generates genuine excitement without sacrificing musicality. This works especially well for programs that want to showcase young singers' versatility and willingness to engage with unconventional instruments.

• Introduce kazoo technique in rehearsal before diving into the full piece. Have singers practice steady buzzing and clean articulation separately so they understand how to voice the instrument without overshadowing the singing.
• Let singers experiment with the recorded accompaniment early. The SoundTrax CD gives them a clear reference for how the kazoos fit into the overall texture, which builds confidence quickly.
• Distribute parts by voice section once singers are comfortable with their melodic lines. Rehearse the kazoo and vocal parts separately first, then layer them together to maintain clarity.
• Consider having non-singing actors deliver spoken lines or narration while the choir handles the musical portions. This keeps focus on the singing and the novelty element without overwhelming your stage.

Position this as a standalone novelty number in a holiday concert, or use it to bridge between more traditional sacred repertoire and upbeat secular selections. It works beautifully as a first-half closer because it energizes the audience and gives singers a moment to show personality and ensemble spirit.

• Kazoo technique and breath control
• Singing while simultaneously managing an additional instrument
• Integrating snippets of familiar melodies into new harmonic contexts
• Rhythmic precision in a playful, character-driven setting
• Dynamic contrast between sung passages and instrumental interjections