We Need A Little Christmas (from Mame): String Orchestra Conductor Score & Parts
By Jerry Herman / Arranged by Ted Ricketts
Grade: 3
Item: 35-PK00144850
$40.00
Pickup currently not available
Buy Extra Parts (Digital PDF Download)
Parts Added to Cart!
Description
From the stage production "Mame" comes this spirited holiday march that adds welcome variety to the holiday fare. Ted's new version for string groups is written for players to sound their very best with limited rehearsal. A super choice for any group. Dur: 2:10
We Need A Little Christmas (from Mame): String Orchestra Conductor Score & Parts isn't in MakeMusic Cloud just yet...but it could be. Let us know you'd like to see it, and you'll help shape what comes next. In the meantime, start a free trial and dive into thousands of interactive titles your students can play along with today.
Request This Title
Tell us you want it.
Start Your Free Trial
Explore everything that's ready to play right now.
Sample Audio
No sample audio found.
Sample Video
No sample videos found.
Additional Details
Publisher:
Hal Leonard
SKU:
35-PK00144850
More about this title
About the Composer: Jerry Herman
Jerry Herman built his reputation as one of Broadway's most prolific and commercially successful composers, creating the scores for landmark musicals including Hello, Dolly!, Mame, and La Cage aux Folles. His gift for melody and theatrical flair made his songs instant standards, many of which have become staples in educational ensembles and community orchestras worldwide.
For music educators, Herman's work represents accessible yet sophisticated composition. His melodies sing naturally, his harmonies are clear without being simplistic, and his arrangements translate effectively across instrumentation. We Need a Little Christmas exemplifies his ability to craft music that energizes performers and audiences alike.
Why we love this
Ted Ricketts' arrangement respects the song's infectious charm while making it genuinely playable for developing string players. The orchestration sits comfortably under the hand without sacrificing vitality, and the two-minute duration fits naturally into any winter concert without overshadowing more substantial works. This is the rare holiday piece that doesn't feel like filler.
What to expect
Bright, optimistic, and full of theatrical verve. The piece captures the theatrical energy of Broadway without pretension, offering that irresistible blend of cheerfulness and musical interest that makes holiday concerts feel special rather than obligatory.
Who it's for
Grade 3 string ensembles looking for holiday repertoire that serves up fun without sacrificing musicality. This works equally well for middle school orchestras, all-string advanced groups, or community ensembles that want a crowd-pleaser with substance.
How to get the most out of it
- Shape the melodic line with gentle dynamic swell at the phrase peaks rather than playing it straight through. The march character benefits from this subtle flexibility.
- Balance the inner voices carefully during the accompaniment passages. String parts that sit between melody and bass need clarity so the texture doesn't muddy.
- Maintain consistent vibrato that matches the esprit of the piece. A touch lighter than your typical ballad keeps the march spirit energized.
- Secure the tempo early in rehearsals and keep it steady. Holiday pieces live or die by rhythmic confidence, and this one builds momentum through clarity rather than rush.
How to use it
Slot this into the second half of your winter concert to reset energy after a heavier classical work, or open with it to establish an immediate sense of occasion. Its theatrical lineage also makes it an excellent bridge between your orchestra program and any school musical or drama productions happening during the season.
Skills your students will build
- Sustaining singing tone in march rhythm
- Balancing ensemble texture with active accompaniment figures
- Responding to subtle dynamic shaping within a structured tempo
- Articulation consistency across shifting rhythmic patterns