Deck the halls

This is a very non-traditional arrangement of “Deck the halls”, with a lilting 6/4 time signature and folk dance rhythms. There are often pairs of notes with the first being staccato and the second accented – really dig into these to make the most of the off-beat rhythms. The “fa la la” ending to each verse needs strong accents on the first and fourth quavers, and clear diction. Make the most of the dynamic contrasts – they can be huge fun.

The piano part is tricky and requires a very good pianist – it’s a piano reduction of an orchestral arrangement, and some of the writing reflects that. Feel free to simplify where needed!