Vicki Tucker Courtney began her musical training on piano at age four and developed her craft through rigorous study at North Texas State University, where she accompanied choirs and deepened her understanding of vocal writing. Her prolific career now spans composing and arranging across multiple genres and instrumentation, including choral works, piano pieces, handbells, and solo voice literature. A consistent recipient of ASCAP Plus Awards, she studied composition under Dove Award winner Mark Hayes and has maintained a thriving private teaching practice in piano and composition while building an output that exceeded 350 published titles by 2017.
Courted by both traditional and contemporary church music communities, Courtney's work reflects her dual commitment to accessibility and musicality. Based in Columbia, Tennessee, she continues to write full time, bringing decades of experience as a performer, educator, and composer to every new piece she creates.
Why we love this
Courtney delivers exactly what elementary and middle school choirs need: a festive Christmas selection that sits comfortably in young voices without condescending to the music. The two-part writing allows directors to manage mixed developmental levels while keeping the energy bright and the text clear.
What to expect
Bright and celebratory, with the uncomplicated joy of bells ringing. The piece moves with natural forward momentum and captures the simplicity of Christmas imagery without sacrificing musical interest.
Who it's for
Elementary and middle school choirs seeking approachable yet engaging Christmas repertoire. This works equally well for concert performances, holiday services, and community events where straightforward musicianship meets festive spirit.
How to get the most out of it
Clarify the text articulation early; young singers often rush decorative passages when they're uncertain of the words.
Let the rhythm settle into a conversational pace rather than metronomic. The bells in the title suggest movement and lightness, not rigidity.
Balance the two parts equally in rehearsal so neither voice dominates; the interplay between them carries the charm of the piece.
How to use it
Pair this with a deeper or more serious holiday piece to create a varied concert arc. It also functions beautifully as an opener or encore, setting a warm, accessible tone for your audience.
Skills your students will build
Two-part part independence and listening
Clear diction and text projection
Rhythmic precision in patterns typical of festive writing
Phrase shaping within accessible vocal ranges
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