Light the Christmas Tree!: 2-Part Choral Octavo
Words and music by Michael Souders / arr., with additional words, by Andy Beck and Brian Fisher
Item: 00-PO-0007880
$2.40
Minimum order quantity: 20 copies
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Description
This upbeat country-rock number is guaranteed to bring the house down at Christmas! The first verse is brimming with the anticipation of decorating for the holidays; the second verse brags about paper chains, candy canes, jingle bells, and shimmering tinsel. With lyrics like "shake it to the left, shake it to the right" on the boot-scootin' chorus, choreography almost writes itself. Or, view the free ChoreoTrax video on alfred.com that teaches your kids a simple country line dance.
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Additional Details
Series:
Alfred Choral Designs
Publisher:
Alfred Music
Page Count:
8
SKU:
00-PO-0007880
More about this title
About the Composer: Michael Souders
Michael Souders teaches music at Colonial Heights Public Schools in Virginia and has become one of Alfred Music's most prolific choral composers. His compositions, rooted in what he calls "Positive American Music," reach audiences far beyond the classroom; his YouTube channel (msouders37) has accumulated over 4.5 million views and more than 3,600 subscribers. A James Madison University graduate with a degree in Music and Worship, Souders studied composition, arranging, and recording with renowned composer Robert W. Smith while performing with top university ensembles and serving as pianist for the JMU Jazz Ensemble.
Since entering the classroom in 2005, Souders has made a practice of writing music directly for his students throughout the school year. This approach keeps his compositions grounded in what actually works with young singers: accessible ranges, practical voice leading, and texts that resonate with elementary and middle school performers. Teachers consistently find his pieces relevant, teachable, and deeply appropriate for their choirs.
Why we love this
Souders captures the unbridled energy of the holidays in a way that energizes young singers without exhausting them. The country-rock idiom feels fresh in a winter concert landscape dominated by traditional carols, and the built-in choreography (complete with a free ChoreoTrax video) means your choir will move and smile together, not just stand and sing. This is the kind of piece that reminds students why they come to rehearsal.
What to expect
The energy crackles with holiday anticipation and playful movement. Singers feel the joy of decorating and celebrating, delivered in a driving country-rock rhythm that keeps the piece light and fun rather than precious or overly sentimental. It's the sound of kids genuinely enjoying themselves on stage.
Who it's for
This octavo suits elementary through early middle school choirs, especially ensembles performing winter concerts that need an upbeat, audience-pleasing moment. It works equally well as a straightforward sing-through or as a fully choreographed production number, giving directors flexibility based on rehearsal time and student confidence.
How to get the most out of it
- Lean into the rhythmic drive of the boot-scootin' chorus by keeping the accompaniment crisp and the tempo steady; this groove is your foundation for the choreography.
- Teach the line dance movement first, even in early rehearsals, so singers understand the rhythmic intention behind phrases like "shake it to the left, shake it to the right."
- Balance the narrative arc between verses: the first verse builds anticipation, while the second celebrates specifics (paper chains, candy canes, tinsel). Let the vocal dynamics reflect that storytelling shift.
- Use the recorded accompaniment to anchor your ensemble's rhythm during rehearsals and performance; the groove drives the piece, and singers will lock in faster with a consistent reference.
How to use it
Position this as your concert's high-energy centerpiece or closer, where the choreography and country-rock groove can release the audience's energy after a set of more traditional carols. It pairs well with a mix of sacred and secular holiday pieces, offering the pop of personality that keeps a holiday concert fresh and memorable.
Skills your students will build
- Two-part voice independence and blend
- Rhythmic precision in a contemporary groove
- Coordination of singing and choreographed movement
- Expressive storytelling through lyrics and dynamics
- Confidence in performance with contemporary musical styles