American Christmas, An

From Wind Repertory Project
Robert W. Smith

Medley arranged by Robert W Smith


General Info

Year: 2004
Duration: c. 2:45
Difficulty: III (see Ratings for explanation)
Publisher: Alfred Publishing
Cost: Score and Parts (print) - $72.00   |   Score Only (print) - $9.00


Instrumentation

Full Score
C Piccolo/Flute I
Flute II
Oboe
Bassoon
B-flat Soprano Clarinet I-II-III
B-flat Bass Clarinet
B-flat Contrabass Clarinet
E-flat Alto Saxophone I-II
B-flat Tenor Saxophone
E-flat Baritone Saxophone
B-flat Trumpet I-II-III
Horn in F I-II
Trombone I-II
Euphonium
Tuba
Timpani
Percussion I-II-III-IV, including:

  • Bass Drum
  • Bells
  • Chimes (optional)
  • Conga
  • Crash Cymbals
  • Hi-Hat
  • Ride Cymbal
  • Sleigh Bells
  • Snare Drum
  • Suspended Cymbal


Errata

None discovered thus far.


Program Notes

Although Western European immigrants brought the Christmas tradition to the United States, the American popular culture has had a unique effect on this annual celebration. Equally, American music has been one of the most widely accepted gifts to the modern world.

It is in this spirit that Robert W. Smith merges the holiday musical tradition with truly American styles through An American Christmas. Mr. Smith has woven three traditional holiday melodies with unique American musical styles. Beginning with quotes using John Philip Sousa's immortal march style, he piece transitions into a melody by Tchaikovsky that is an annual tradition throughout the United States. However, following a brief melodic statement in a traditional setting, the familiar melody is transformed into American jazz. The American style of rock follows with a traditional holiday melody that Mr. Smith calls Rock Ye Merry Gentlemen. Finally, the sounds of John Philip Sousa return with a careful pairing of The Stars and Stripes Forever and Jingle Bells, which Mr. Smith has titled Jingle Bells Forever.

Commissioned by and dedicated to the Slinger High School Band (WI), Dave Hanke and Steve Zenz, Directors.

- Program Note from score


Media


State Ratings

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Performances

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Adaptable Music


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