This Twenty-Five of December: 2-Part Choral Octavo

Gilpin writes holiday music that feels genuinely festive without relying on overfamiliar material or oversimplification. The minor key and rhythmic energy give this piece character and personality, and the built-in solo moment creates a natural dramatic arc that keeps singers engaged through the entire performance.

There's a spirited, almost mischievous quality here. The minor key lends sophistication while folk-inspired rhythms and the refrain of "fa la la's" and "noel's" deliver unmistakable holiday warmth. The shift into the softer, introspective solo passage creates a moment of reflection before the final exuberant return.

This piece is ideal for developing ensembles or any choir looking for accessible but musically engaging holiday repertoire. Two-part voicing makes it approachable for mixed-age or mixed-ability groups while the energetic writing and built-in soloist moment keep singers invested.

• Emphasize the dance-like rhythmic drive in the outer sections; this piece thrives on forward momentum rather than lush sustain.
• Feature your soloist in the slower, introspective passage with supportive dynamics from the ensemble; this contrast will land effectively with an audience.
• Highlight the folk-like or sea shanty character by letting the melody breathe naturally and avoiding over-legit phrasing.
• Balance the festive text (trimming trees, decking halls) with the minor key tonality; the two elements create the piece's distinctive personality.

Open a holiday concert with this piece to set a joyful, energetic tone, or use it as a closing number before a more traditional finale. It pairs well alongside a cappella spirituals or other secular Christmas songs, offering rhythmic and tonal variety while remaining fully festive.

• Singing in minor keys with rhythmic confidence
• Balancing ensemble support with featured solo singing
• Interpreting dance-like rhythms with appropriate articulation and phrasing
• Creating contrast between spirited and introspective musical moments
• Projecting holiday character through text and musical style