Rudolph, the Red-Nosed Reindeer: 2-Part Choral Octavo
Words and music by Johnny Marks / arr. Andy Beck
Item: 00-PO-0008139
Digital Download
$2.65
Minimum order quantity: 10 copies
Please note: Under U.S. copyright law, you must purchase the exact number of copies needed for your ensemble. Printing, duplicating or sharing additional copies is strictly prohibited.
Pickup currently not available
Related Items
Rudolph, the Red-Nosed Reindeer: SoundTrax Digital Audio Download
The leader of the sleigh has never sounded so good. After a traditional treatment of the introduction, this fresh arrangement becomes funky and fun. Andy's clever choreography suggestions are included in the octavo. Irresistible!
Discover MakeMusic Cloud: thousands of interactive titles your students can play along with today.
Johnny Marks composed "Rudolph, the Red-Nosed Reindeer" in 1939, creating one of the most enduring holiday standards in American popular music. His work transcends the novelty song category through its genuine melodic appeal and emotional core, which have made it a staple of holiday programming across generations. Marks understood how to write music that functions equally well in concert halls and around family pianos, a skill that accounts for the song's remarkable staying power in music education.
Why we love this
Andy Beck's arrangement respects the song's iconic status while refusing to play it safe. The shift from a traditional opening into funky territory catches singers and audiences off guard in the best way, making this feel like a discovery rather than a rote holiday obligation. The included choreography suggestions give your singers permission to move and commit fully, turning a familiar tune into genuine performance.
What to expect
Nostalgic warmth gives way to playful funk grooves and the kind of joy that makes singers grin mid-rehearsal. The piece inhabits two musical worlds at once, honoring the beloved original while proving that familiar songs can still surprise us.
Who it's for
Middle school and high school choirs looking for holiday music that entertains without condescending. This arrangement works equally well for community choirs and school ensembles seeking contemporary energy alongside tradition.
How to get the most out of it
Balance the traditional introduction carefully so the contrast with the funky section feels intentional rather than jarring. The opening frames everything that follows.
Commit to the groove in the funk section without overthinking it. Pop sensibility lives in the attitude, not in perfect precision.
Use the recorded accompaniment strategically in rehearsals to lock the rhythmic feel, then sing a cappella occasionally so singers internalize the pocket rather than leaning on the track.
Layer the choreography suggestions gradually. Start with simple gestures in early rehearsals and add complexity only once the vocal line sits confidently.
How to use it
Open a holiday concert with this piece to set a tone of musical fun and accessibility before moving into more formal arrangements. Its 12-page length and straightforward 2-part voicing make it an excellent choice for mixed ensembles where range constraints matter.
Skills your students will build
Contrasting musical styles and knowing when to shift energy between sections
Rhythmic precision in syncopated pop grooves
Integration of choreography with vocal performance
Balancing melody and accompaniment in a pop arrangement
Reading and executing recorded accompaniment cues
You May Also Like
Scan to Complete Your Purchase
Use your phone's camera to scan the code below
You'll log in on your phone and the order will be added to your account
