Text Me Merry Christmas (arr. Adam Scott): TTBB Choral Octavo

Adam Scott's arrangement captures the irreverent spirit of the original while translating it beautifully for traditional male voice parts. The modernist humor of texting within a Christmas carol framework gives singers and audiences permission to enjoy something genuinely funny without sacrificing musical substance. It's the kind of novelty piece that actually works in performance because the arrangement respects both the joke and the harmony.

Playful and tongue in cheek, with the warm harmonic sophistication of barbershop underneath. The arrangement walks the line between novelty and legitimate musicianship, offering enough harmonic color to satisfy singers while the texting premise keeps everyone smiling through rehearsal and performance.

Male choirs looking for a contemporary showstopper that engages audiences without relying on traditional holiday sentiment. Barbershop enthusiasts and college a cappella groups will recognize the harmonic language while enjoying something that speaks to modern humor and technology.

• Lean into the comedic rhythm of the text messaging references; let the lyrics land clearly so the humor lands with it.
• Balance the baritone and bass lines carefully in the sections where they double the main melodic idea; clarity matters more than blend here.
• Record a version yourselves before performing. Hearing your own group nail the arrangement builds confidence and reveals which sections need tighter rhythmic unison.
• Consider using a simple percussive backbeat or light rhythm section accompaniment to anchor the contemporary feel and support the less experienced singers.

Perfect as a closing number on a holiday concert where you want to shift the emotional temperature and send the audience out laughing. Pair it with one or two more traditional carols earlier in the set so the contrast feels earned and the novelty lands harder. It works equally well as a fundraiser closer or festive gift to your community during the final rehearsal before winter break.

• Syncopated rhythm reading in a contemporary harmonic context
• Diction clarity in comedy material and fast text delivery
• Barbershop harmonic function and voice leading
• Balancing ensemble blend when multiple parts carry thematic material