Mary, Did You Know? (arr. James Meredith): Concert Band Conductor Score & Parts
As performed by Mark Lowry / Arranged by James Meredith
Grade: 3
Item: 35-PK01651557
$70.00
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Description
This cherished contemporary Christmas hit has been recorded by many artists including Pentatonix and has become a staple of the holiday season. This great arrangement for concert band will be a great addition to your holiday program.
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Additional Details
Publisher:
Hal Leonard
SKU:
35-PK01651557
More about this title
About the Artist: Mark Lowry
Mark Lowry is a Christian music artist, songwriter, and speaker whose work has reached audiences across multiple genres and media. He co-wrote "Mary, Did You Know?" with Janie Fricke, creating a song that has transcended its contemporary Christian origins to become a holiday standard performed by everyone from classical choirs to pop acts.
Why we love this
James Meredith's arrangement captures the song's emotional warmth while keeping the writing accessible for a Grade 3 band. The familiarity of the tune means students connect immediately, but the pop and jazz inflections in the orchestration keep it fresh and engaging for both players and audiences tired of traditional Christmas fare.
What to expect
Reflective and conversational, built on a foundation of gentle groove rather than march-like stiffness. The arrangement respects the song's introspective nature while allowing enough musical texture to keep ensemble players engaged throughout.
Who it's for
Band directors seeking accessible holiday repertoire that appeals to modern audiences without sacrificing musical substance. This works equally well for concert programs, holiday assemblies, or community performances where the tune's immediate recognition enhances its impact.
How to get the most out of it
- Balance the melody between woodwinds and brass to preserve the song's intimate quality; resist the urge to let full sections overpower the lyrical content.
- Lock the rhythm section early in rehearsals to establish the groove that underpins the arrangement's contemporary feel.
- Shape phrases as if singing text, even in purely instrumental sections. The song's power comes from its conversational, questioning melody.
- Pay attention to any jazz harmonies or unexpected chord movements in the score; these details distinguish the arrangement from straight versions of the tune.
How to use it
Position this early or mid-concert on a holiday program to shift the mood and give your audience a moment of familiarity and warmth. It pairs naturally with more traditional seasonal pieces and provides a bridge between classical holiday standards and contemporary pop arrangements.
Skills your students will build
- Playing with a steady groove and pop/jazz rhythmic feel
- Balancing melody and accompaniment within ensemble textures
- Shaping longer lyrical phrases with intentional phrasing and dynamics
- Responding to harmonic color in contemporary jazz voicings