Merry Christmas! Merry Christmas!: 2-Part Choral Octavo
Words and music by Mary Donnelly and George L. O. Strid
Item: 00-PO-0001905
$1.85
Minimum order quantity: 20 copies
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Description
According to the lyrics, this is the song that Santa and his reindeer and elves love to sing. And who can blame them? It's irresistibly jolly! When we play "We Wish You a Merry Christmas" on our kazoos, the cheer-factor skyrockets!
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Additional Details
Series:
Alfred Choral Designs
Publisher:
Alfred Music
Page Count:
12
SKU:
00-PO-0001905
More about this title
About the Composer: Mary Donnelly
Mary Donnelly grew up in Reno, Nevada, and studied English and French at the University of Nevada, Reno. While still an undergraduate, she founded two children's choruses, an experience that inspired her to pursue music education formally. She completed a Master's Degree in Education at Lesley College in Cambridge, Massachusetts, with a focus on integrating the arts across the curriculum.
Donnelly spent thirty years teaching general music and choir in elementary and middle schools throughout the Washoe County School District in Reno. In 1985, she began a prolific songwriting partnership with George Strid after the two co-taught a sixth-grade music class. Together they have composed over two hundred songs and twenty-five musicals for young performers. She holds membership in ACDA, NEA, and ASCAP.
Why we love this
This novelty arrangement captures the infectious energy of a holiday classic while giving it a fresh, kazoo-driven twist that middle school choirs find irresistible. The 2-part voicing keeps the arranging accessible without sacrificing the joy and humor that make this piece a standout in holiday programming. Donnelly and Strid's gift for writing music that students actually want to sing shines through in every measure.
What to expect
Pure, unapologetic holiday cheer wrapped in novelty humor. The arrangement bounces with the kind of infectious joy that makes you picture Santa's workshop in full swing, complete with kazoos echoing through the toy factory. It's the kind of piece that reminds audiences why singing together at the holidays matters.
Who it's for
Middle school choir directors seeking a high-energy holiday piece that entertains audiences while keeping singers engaged. This works beautifully for holiday concerts, winter assemblies, or any program where you want genuine laughs alongside the seasonal spirit.
How to get the most out of it
- Lean into the comedic spirit of the arrangement. The kazoo reference isn't just a joke; it's an invitation to embrace the piece's playful energy and encourage your singers to find genuine fun in the performance.
- Nail the rhythmic precision in sections where the two parts move independently. Clean articulation and rhythmic confidence will make the novelty elements land even harder.
- Use the recorded accompaniment as a rehearsal tool to establish the groove and tempo before moving to live piano or a cappella work.
How to use it
Pair this with a more reverent or traditional holiday selection to create programming contrast and keep your concert dynamic. It lands especially well in the second half of a holiday show, where audiences are warmed up and ready for something that delivers both musicality and entertainment value.
Skills your students will build
- Part independence in 2-part voicing
- Rhythmic clarity and articulation
- Ensemble balance and blend
- Musical character and style differentiation
- Confidence performing novelty material with conviction