Falling to sleep on the night before Christmas is no easy task for a child. While anxiously dreaming of things to come, the clock ticks and tocks. Such is the story of Brian Slawson's Christmas Day. Following a festive statement from the solo chimes, holiday cheer spills forth in musical colors only percussion instruments can provide. The clock, portrayed by temple blocks, starts its countdown to the big day amid a light and carefree melody. Rhythms are generally basic and repetitive. Besides providing holiday cheer, Christmas Day is a great vehicle in which to teach younger players the basics of handling 12/8 time. You can't wrap that kind of gift with a bow!