David Shaffer

Viva Noel

“Viva Noel” is a medley of glorious holiday favorites in a fast/slow/fast form. Opening with a musical fanfare based on the French hymn “He is Born the Holy Child” the arrangement transitions quickly into a fanciful rendition of “Deck the Halls.” The following section opens with a beautiful brass choir adaptation of “It Came Upon A Midnight Clear” and develops into a lush, full band setting of this charming carol. The finale begins as a quick, light version of “Here We Come a-Wassailing” ending with a declarative brass fanfare with small bits of “Bring a Torch, Jeannette Isabella” and “Angels We Have Hear on High.” This high-energy holiday arrangement features all sections of the ensemble with exceptional emphasis on the percussion writing. “Viva Noel!” will be a solid opener or closer for any holiday concert!