Ariana Grande's modern holiday classic gets a contemporary a cappella makeover! This clever arrangement kicks off with a madrigal-style "fa-la-la" introduction before bursting into a bright pop groove. With vocal percussion and finger snaps to lock in the beat, this high-energy hit is a perfect fit for any SATB ensemble looking to add a Christmas mega-hit to their December program.
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Additional Details
Series:Alfred Pop Choral Series
Publisher:Alfred Music
Page Count:16
SKU:00-PO-0007911
More about this title
About the Composer: Ariana Grande
Ariana Grande is a singer, songwriter, and producer who has defined pop music for a generation of listeners. Her vocal prowess and songwriting instincts have shaped contemporary popular music across multiple genres, from R&B-influenced pop to theatrical interpretations. Grande's work in musical theater and her extensive catalog of original compositions demonstrate her versatility as a creator and her deep understanding of vocal writing.
Why we love this
This arrangement captures the infectious charm of a modern holiday standard while respecting the a cappella idiom. The contrast between the madrigal-style opening and the rhythmic pop groove creates genuine musical interest, giving your singers something genuinely engaging to perform rather than a straight transcription. It's the kind of piece that energizes an audience and showcases vocal ensemble skills without sacrificing accessibility.
What to expect
The piece inhabits two distinct musical worlds: an intimate, madrigal-tinged opening that feels almost Renaissance in its vocal layering, then pivots into a propulsive pop groove built on snaps and rhythmic vocal percussion. The overall effect is joyful and contemporary, with the kind of energy that makes audiences lean forward.
Who it's for
SATB choirs seeking contemporary holiday repertoire that resonates with modern audiences while remaining accessible to intermediate singers. This arrangement works for high school and college ensembles comfortable with rhythmic precision and vocal percussion, as well as community choirs looking to expand beyond traditional seasonal music.
How to get the most out of it
Shape the madrigal introduction with clear diction and unified vowels; this passage sets the sonic world and deserves distinct character from the pop section that follows.
Lock the vocal percussion and finger snaps into a grid with precision, treating them as the heartbeat of the arrangement rather than textural flourishes.
Balance the pop groove with the choral texture by ensuring inner voices maintain independence and blend without disappearing beneath the melody line.
Use dynamic contrast between sections to highlight the arrangement's structural shift; understate the beginning so the pop section's energy lands with full impact.
How to use it
Program this as a concert closer or as part of a pop holiday set; its contemporary style and high energy make it an effective final statement. Pair it with other modernized holiday arrangements to create a cohesive second half, or use it as a striking contrast to more traditional seasonal repertoire earlier in the concert.
Skills your students will build
Executing vocal percussion and rhythmic snaps with ensemble precision
Transitioning between madrigal and contemporary pop textures
Maintaining independent inner voice lines within a choral blend
Interpreting contemporary pop phrasing and diction within choral voicing
