If you’re like me, you’re already planning for the fall—which includes forgotten words such “Christmas,” “holiday,” “cold,” and “winter.” Here at Graphite, we are happy to make your Christmas-in-July planning a little easier by suggesting some fresh repertoire. The following pieces offer a wide variety of styles, including joyfully dancing rhythms, hammering drums, and reflective meditation.

Mixed Voices

Beware the Winter Settlin’ In, Elizabeth Alexander
This whirl of midwinter merrymaking welcomes the weary stranger while cautioning us to keep winter’s chill out of our hearts. This spry and nimble Irish jig features a chorus of Gaelic mouth music, also known as lilting or diddling.

The North Star Carol, Timothy C. Takach
The title “The North Star Carol” references Jesus’ gifts of teaching and guidance as a compass. In the tradition of the Wexford and Sussex carols, it also nods to Minnesota, the “North Star State,” where this carol was composed.

Twelve Drummers, Shruthi Rajasekar
Twelve Drummers is a feisty celebration of all things percussive. With bass drums, cross-rhydrums, and drrrrrumrolls, the miniature revels in the pleasure of singing together– true love’s ultimate gift!

December Light, Dale Trumbore
In December Light, even the darkest winter lights are brightened by starlight dancing off of snow. The returning light offers a metaphor for resilience, with luminous dawns “full of hope / no matter what else we know.” 

Multiple Voicings

The Oxen, Alex Nishibun
A warm, contemplative setting of Thomas Hardy’s “The Oxen” for all voicings, this work opens with optional handbells striking twelve, evoking the mystery of midnight through off-beat entrances. The use of Lydian mode lends a sense of brightness and wonder, balancing introspection with a subtle, vibrant hope. 

SSAA/high voices

Endless Night, Joshua Shank
This reimagining of Silent Night takes its cue from Knut Nystedt’s iconic multi-choir work, Immortal Bach, while adapting the concept for a chamber ensemble. The result is a tightly controlled yet fluid interplay of four SA choirs, where historical source material and contemporary texture meet.

Meet Me for Noche Buena, Saunder Choi
Sung in Tagalog and English, “Meet Me for Noche Buena” is a celebration of shared traditions and heartwarming journeys. Commissioned by Pacific Chorale, this captivating piece premiered in December 2022. Join us as we embrace the beauty of Filipino culture, forging connections and bringing holiday traditions to new places.

TTBB/low voices

I’ll be Home for Christmas, arr. Jo Goldsmith-Eteson
This arrangement of a beloved Christmas song offers a new (yet nostalgic) twist in its lush and comforting harmonies. Although approachable at first glance, this piece will develop and showcase your singers’ blend, tuning, ensemble, vowel unification and their ability to create a magic festive moment for the audience. 

We Wish You a Merry Christmas, Timothy C. Takach
 Imagine a jazzed up version of the familiar carol, add a strong beat with bongos and a djembe, and a gospel-style development and you can picture this arrangement. A catchy, exciting opener or closer for your next Christmas concert.