Kendor Music Inc. Christmas in the Key of Cheer - Arcari - String Orchestra - Gr. 1

Arranger: Tyler Arcari
Format: Score and Parts
Instrumentation: String Orchestra
Grade: 1

Inspired by the composer's love and nostalgia for the season, this rock-inspired arrangement of "Angels We Have Heard on High" and "Up on the Housetop" will add an undeniable air of cheer to your program.

Program Notes
Ok, I know... totally cliche, but I really, truly love the Christmas season. I am still, as an adult, swept away by the promise of the season and the spirit of that particular holiday. It really lends itself to overwhelming feelings of nostalgia and possibility. I am also a sucker for a catchy chord progression, and that, my friends, is where this rock-inspired version of these classic carols was born!

I tried to hint at some classic offerings with the downward-moving quarter-note motif in the opening of the work, while infusing my own modern twist on the harmonic movement in the counter lines. What came out of it is a fun and positively hopeful concert opener that condenses all of my joy for the season into a minute and a half.

Feel free to have lots of fun at M.25 when the low Strings take the melody over-get your audience involved and encourage them to clap along. I know many directors hesitate to start audience clapping, so M.33 is built to gently encourage them to trail off... here's hoping!

I truly hope that, whether you celebrate this particular holiday or not, your winter season is merry and wonderful, and that you get all the Cheer you desire!

Tyler Arcari
Lakeland, FL, 2026