Pat Ballard was an accomplished songwriter and composer who specialized in accessible, character-driven music for stage and screen. His work bridged popular song sensibilities with theatrical storytelling, making him a natural fit for holiday material that needed both charm and singability.
Why we love this
Roger Emerson's arrangement captures the playful irreverence of these two songs without losing their infectious melodic appeal. The SATB voicing sits comfortably for mixed choirs while maintaining the infectious, slightly campy energy that makes holiday light repertoire genuinely enjoyable rather than obligatory.
What to expect
Buoyant and theatrical, with a wink built into the DNA. These songs bounce along with genuine warmth underneath the humor, creating that delightful space where holiday music can be both fun and genuinely well-crafted.
Who it's for
Mixed choirs looking for holiday repertoire that feels fresh and engaging rather than solemn or overly sentimental. This works equally well for community choirs, church ensembles, and high school groups wanting something their audiences will actually smile at.
How to get the most out of it
Lean into the comedic timing between sections. These pieces thrive when singers commit fully to the character rather than overthinking the arrangement.
Balance the soprano line carefully, especially when it carries the primary melody. The supporting voices need enough space to land their moments without disappearing.
Consider the piece as a whole unit rather than stitching two separate songs together. The transition from one song to the next should feel deliberate and energetic.
How to use it
Pair this with more traditional or sacred holiday material to create tonal variety within a longer concert. At 14 pages, it anchors a holiday set without dominating the program, making it ideal for the moment when you want to shift energy and remind your audience that Christmas music doesn't always require reverence.
Skills your students will build
Stylistic control and comedic delivery in ensemble singing
Quick transitions between contrasting melodic ideas
Balance and blend when melody rotates among voice parts
Rhythmic precision in syncopated passages
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