August Additions - Christmas Music!

New Christmas Midi and MP3 files are here!

Music teachers always are looking for interesting pieces for their Christmas/Holiday concerts. Pieces that are meaningful and have lots of musical ideas to teach. I spent part of my summer getting into the Christmas spirit! Take a look at these new additions to the Octavo Midi library! There are more to come!

Glow - Eric Whitacre - SATB

Simple and welcoming, Glow was performed for the first time by the World of Color Honor Choir at Disney's California Adventure® Park. The Honor Choir, made up of over 700 singers from across America, were selected to be part of the night-time spectacular Winter Dreams show.
I found ‘Glow’ to have the characteristic Whitacre cluster harmonies, yet it was constructed in such a way as to be perfectly accessible to my high school choir. The melody is delicate and beautiful. When your singers are ready, mix them up and put them in a circle. You won’t have to wait long for the goosebumps!

Here We Come-a-Caroling - SATB - arr. Josh Sparkman

This wonderful, energetic arrangement of the traditional English carol with a fresh, new text will quickly become a favorite to sing and hear. Scored for SATB choir and piano, the setting is challenging but rewarding. A wonderful piece for a concert program.
The piano accompaniment is really fun with rhythms of 2 against 3 scattered throughout. The singers have some great dissonances and fun syncopations. A short a cappella section provides a nice contrast before an even more exciting ending! Your students will absolutely love it!

The Wexford Carol - SAB - arr. Victor Johnson

Tender strains of a Cello and a Soloist open this extraordinary arrangement of the traditional Irish carol. The canonic interplay between the vocal parts adds interest and color, while the sonorous quality of the Cello as it melds with Johnson's inspiring accompaniment, creates an atmosphere of tranquility and peace. School and church choirs will absolutely love this effective and artistically strong seasonal work.
The vocal ranges of this arrangement will fit any choir. If you don’t have a cellist, just about any instrument will enhance this work beautifully.

Ding, Dong! Merrily On High! - SATB - arr. Ryan Murphy

True to arranger Ryan Murphy's style, this setting of Ding, Dong! Merrily On High! is a glorious celebration of music featuring choir, four-hand piano, and chimes. Accessible vocal lines are driven by the tremendous accompaniment, making this a great choice for many levels or for a combination of choirs. A perfect concert opener or closer.
This is an impressive and exciting work! It’s my first exposure to Ryan Murphy, but I’m sure now, it won’t be my last! If you’ve got a couple of fine accompanists, give it a go! They will love the challenge as well!