Caroling Fantasy

Composer Bisbee has created a festive and clever medley of "The First Noel," "Sing Nowell," "God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen," and "Have a Merry Christmas." An aleatoric rendering of the latter greeting leads to the final dramatic phrase: "And a happy new year." Throughout, a sprightly flute part decorates the melodies; the piano adds great rhythmic and harmonic support; the handbells add elegance with their special ring; and the drum and triangle add rhythmic emphasis and sparkle. The versatile arrangement can be sung by treble choirs and/or by mixed voices. This piece is a great choice for concluding a holiday concert, perhaps with more than one choir combining forces.