We Sing Feliz Navidad: Choral Octavo SoundTrax CD

Strommen's Caribbean reimagining of holiday music lands with genuine cultural specificity rather than tokenism. The rhythmic swing built into the piano part means the accompaniment itself teaches the style, making this accessible even for singers unfamiliar with Latin feels, while the optional rhythm section and SoundTrax recording give you multiple pathways to the sound you want.

Warmth and movement without heaviness. The piece swings with an easy, infectious lilt that feels celebratory and inclusive, letting singers inhabit a different musical world while still singing holiday music that connects to their audiences.

Choirs of all ages and experience levels looking to break from traditional Christmas programming. Directors seeking genuine multicultural repertoire that doesn't require specialized knowledge of Latin music to execute well.

• Let the piano establish the swaying rhythm before singers enter; this anchors the Caribbean feel across the whole choir
• Add shakers or light percussion gradually during rehearsals rather than all at once; singers need to internalize the rhythm first before layering in extra color
• If using the SoundTrax CD, rehearse with it early and often so the choir locks into the recorded groove rather than fighting against it
• Emphasize the Spanish text with natural phrasing and diction; the language carries as much character as the rhythm

Open your second half with this to reset the concert's energy and mood after more traditional carols in the first set. Alternatively, place it near the end as a send-off that leaves the room smiling and moving, especially if your concert theme centers on global or multicultural perspectives on the holidays.

• Singing in Spanish with natural stress and phrasing
• Internalizing Caribbean rhythmic feels (clave-based swing)
• Responding to and maintaining pulse in accompaniment-driven arrangements
• Blending voices within a syncopated, rhythmically active texture