The Easy Christmas Gig Book: Brass Quintet Score & Parts

Marlatt resists the temptation to oversimplify these beloved carols. Each part carries genuine musical interest, so your developing players feel like they're performing, not just reading easy lines. The consistent feature of melody throughout the ensemble means nobody gets stuck on root notes for four minutes.

Warm and approachable. These arrangements honor the carol tradition without pretension; the harmonies feel natural and the melodic lines sit comfortably for younger voices. Even as an Easy-level collection, the writing respects both the music and the musicians.

Developing brass players who have moved beyond absolute beginner level but aren't yet ready for intermediate repertoire. This collection works equally well for middle school ensembles, community bands building a youth brass program, or sectional rehearsal groups looking for seasonal material that keeps everyone engaged.

• Balance the melody voice with the supporting parts by rehearsing the accompaniment first without the lead line. This establishes the harmonic foundation and keeps players from overwhelming whoever carries the tune.
• Work through one carol completely before introducing the next. This builds confidence and allows your quintet to develop interpretation and breathing together rather than sight-reading the whole book.
• Lock in the rhythm section (tuba and french horn) before the first rehearsal with all five players. Ten minutes of prep work here prevents the ensemble from drifting during performance.
• Record a run-through once you have the notes secure. Listening back reveals balance issues and phrasing opportunities that are easy to miss in the moment.

Slot this into your December calendar as part of a holiday concert that pairs with larger ensemble pieces. Six carols give you flexibility: program two or three in your first half, rest the quintet while your full band plays, then return them for the finale. Alternatively, this works as a complete, standalone concert if you're building a dedicated chamber series.

• Balancing melody and harmonic accompaniment within a small ensemble
• Reading and performing from individual parts rather than a score
• Phrasing familiar melodies in fresh arrangements
• Breathing and ensemble cohesion in quintet textures
• Intonation control with limited reinforcement from other voices