SKU: AP.49905

ISBN 9781470662325. UPC: 038081579528. English.

Using only the first six notes of D major and easy rhythms, Pizzicato Holidays, arranged by Chris M. Bernotas, is perfect for beginning string students' first concert. The introduction and ending bookends include a hint of O Christmas Tree, along with Up on the Housetop; The Dreydl Song; God Rest Ye Merry, Gentlemen; and Auld Lang Syne. All sections play the melody in turn and have interesting parts throughout. Violin 2 and viola are doubled, as are cello and string bass. A simple sleigh bell part is included but optional. A wonderful selection to ring in the holidays! (2:25).

SKU: AP.48062

UPC: 038081556826. English.

Imagine the quiet, the anticipation, the tree, and all the lights as Christmas Eve becomes Christmas, and you will have the feel of this beautiful rock ballad, Midnight Christmas Eve. As seen in the Trans-Siberian Orchestra stage show The Christmas Attic, this lyric piece, arranged by Bob Phillips, will add depth to any holiday or winter concert. Though an easy piece for high school orchestras, the optional electric violin and guitar parts provide the perfect chance to feature an electric instrument and a more advanced player. If you haven't seen TSO, check it out online and then share this one with your students. Perhaps include a field trip to see the band live with lights and effects.

Listen to the original recordings of TSO to decide which distortion effects to use with the electric violin or electric guitar. This is a great listening exercise for the kids. (4:05) This title is available in MakeMusic Cloud.