Christmas  Up a Level         

Here's a moving Christmas piece based on 'Silent Night.' Incorporating his technique for providing a soloist experience for any member of the ensemble (or a combination of players), Robert W. Smith has staged a master work for intermediate orchestra. Very touching, this arrangement will be a classic you can use from year to year. (3:33)

Eighteen instantly recognizable tunes of the season are packed into this brilliantly conceived medley, sure to delight your December audiences. Familiar carols and instrumental favorites come together in a seamless scoring that utilizes moderate ranges and accessible rhythms. Variety and color abound with the mood changing every four to eight measures, and as is the case with this series, the work may be effectively performed by string as well as full orchestras.

Here's a romp that will have your Christmas concert audiences in stitches. Just imagine your Head Teacher, your musicians' favourite teachers, the mayor, or whomever, complete with chef's hat, banging on pots and pans and water glasses, and accompanied in the Christmas spirit by your orchestra. You supply the 'props,' add any winds and percussion you desire to your string orchestra, and you'll be cookin' on the front burner with this one! (1:43)

(String Orchestra with optional parts for woodwinds & brass) Perhaps the most recognized holiday tune in three-quarter time, The Christmas Waltz has been skillfully arranged for intermediate full or string orchestra. Be sure to have a drummer with brushes if you perform this with strings alone to add to the style! You'll be amazed how big your intermediate orchestra will sound with this holiday classic. Bring in the season with this sparkling new arrangement. (2:02)

We're all familiar with the traditional melodies of the Christmas season. A number of Christmas Songs have become important too, and this upbeat and inspiring piece is a beautiful example. Bob Cerulli has created a lush harmonic setting that will make for a very special moment during your yearly Christmas concert. It's delightful! Remember, this arrangement is complete with just a string orchestra, and any percussion and winds may be added up to a full orchestra.

Featuring the most memorable tunes: The Polar Express; When Christmas Comes to Town; Hot Chocolate; Believe and Spirit of the Season, this Glen Ballard and Alan Silvestri film score to the blockmuster movie Polar Express that starred Tom Hanks in 12 different animated roles.(String Orchestra with optional parts for woodwinds & brass)

It don't mean a thing if it don't got that swing! Totally hip and features the bass! Students will feel soooooo cool playing this setting of Up on the Housetop. A great vehicle to develop the feel of swing eighths. This may be played by strings alone or with any combination of winds.

Three cherished Ralph Vaughan Williams carols are incorporated into this lovely medley. The works include 'Forest Green,' 'Wassail Song' and 'Sussex Carol.' The joyous carols are all from Vaughan Williams' native England. A very moving addition for your holiday program. (3:59)