The Angel Choir And The Trumpeter (arr. John Leavitt): SATB Choral Octavo

Leavitt's arrangement captures the wonder of Dedrick's original concept with elegant simplicity. The writing sits comfortably for mixed voices while preserving the carol-like charm that makes this piece resonate during holiday services and concerts.

Warmth and reverence shape this piece from opening to close. The trumpet's presence adds a ceremonial quality while the voices offer intimate, almost hymn-like support that invites the listener into quiet reflection.

This arrangement works for choirs of moderate ability seeking genuine sacred repertoire that honors the Christmas season. It's ideal for programs where you want a piece that feels special without requiring virtuosic vocal technique or complex harmonic language.

• Balance the trumpet part carefully in rehearsal so it highlights the melody without overwhelming the choir; consider rehearsing voices alone first, then gradually layer in the trumpet line.
• Shape the phrases with consistent breath support through longer lines; this keeps the piece moving and maintains the gentle, reverent quality even in sections marked with moderate dynamics.
• Pay attention to vowel unification in the SATB sections, especially where parts diverge, so each voice line remains clear without sacrificing blend.
• Experiment with the tempo during the trumpet solo passages; slightly more space here can enhance the lyrical quality and give the accompaniment time to settle.

Slot this into your December concert as a moment of repose between more robust carols or secular numbers. Its modest length and gentle character make it equally effective as a midconcert meditation or as a closing piece that leaves audiences in a contemplative mood.

• Singing sustained lines with consistent breath support
• Blending within SATB texture while maintaining individual line integrity
• Responding to instrumental color and ensemble balance
• Phrasing in a sacred, legit choral style