James Pierpont (1822–1893) composed one of America's most enduring holiday melodies: "Jingle Bells," originally titled "The One Horse Open Sleigh." Written in 1857, the song became a cultural fixture far beyond its New England origins, proving that a genuinely catchy tune transcends both genre and century. Pierpont's ability to craft memorable, singable melodies made him a valuable contributor to 19th-century American popular music.
Why we love this
Roger Emerson's swinging treatment captures the infectious energy of the original while making it genuinely fun for young singers to perform. A 2-part voicing opens this holiday standard to a wider range of ensembles, and the jazz styling gives you something rhythmically lively to program when you want to break from traditional carols.
What to expect
Bright and playful, with a jazz swing that makes the familiar melody feel fresh. The arrangement sparkles with rhythmic vitality and invites singers into a musical conversation rather than a formal performance.
Who it's for
This works for middle school, high school, and adult choirs looking for accessible holiday repertoire with contemporary flair. Directors needing music that builds ensemble confidence while delivering immediate musical satisfaction will find this particularly useful.
How to get the most out of it
Emphasize the shuffle feel in the rhythm section; let the pulse be bouncy and conversational rather than metronomic.
Balance the two parts so neither overwhelms the other, especially in unison passages where blend matters most.
Keep the energy lifted throughout. This arrangement thrives on forward momentum and doesn't ask for introspection.
How to use it
Pair this with a traditional carol earlier in your holiday concert to showcase the range and adaptability of the season's music. It also works beautifully as a finale or encore number, sending audiences out with genuine warmth and humor.
Skills your students will build
Singing with swing rhythms and jazz phrasing
Balancing two independent vocal lines
Maintaining rhythmic independence and precision in syncopated figures
Interpreting stylistic markings that convey jazz articulation and dynamics
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