Whether you started listening to Christmas music last week or back in October, the tide of Christmas tunes is now entirely inescapable. With festive music blaring from every radio and department store speaker, we can easily become overwhelmed (or annoyed) with hearing those same-old Christmas staples over and over again. So, to avoid turning into the Grinch this holiday season, here is a list of 5 Christmas tunes from various genres to freshen up your holiday playlist.
1. “The 12 Days of Christmas” arranged by Relient K
Whether we like it or not, we’ve all heard countless renditions of this song, but if you’re interested in hearing a new twist on this classic, check out Relient K’s rendition of “The 12 Days of Christmas” from their album Let It Snow, Baby…Let It Reindeer (2007). This rock n’ roll take on the classic Christmas song is an eclectic blend of musical styles wrapped in a lighthearted tongue-in-cheek style that is an absolute must-have on your holiday playlist.
Listen to “The 12 Days of Christmas” here!
2. “We Three Kings” arranged by Matt Riley
You’ve probably heard of Trans-Siberian Orchestra’s famous rock-orchestra sound, but if you’re looking for an epic Christmas orchestral piece, look no further than composer Matt Riley’s arrangement of “We Three Kings.” This high-intensity arrangement features a virtuosic violin solo that will make you wish that you played the violin (or send you to the practice room if you already do)! Conjuring the image of the ancient Middle East, “We Three Kings” takes you on a breathtakingly perilous journey across the mysterious desert.
Listen to “We Three Kings” here!
3. “You’re a Mean One, Mr. Grinch” arranged by Straight No Chaser
Pentatonix may have been the group to make a cappella famous, but their contemporary Straight No Chaser is not to be missed. This all-male ensemble originally from Indiana University combines excellent vocal technique with a fun, creative flair. Their arrangement of “You’re a Mean One, Mr. Grinch” features a wonderfully humorous bass solo deep in the low register that you can’t help but smile when you hear it. This song and many other fun Christmas arrangements can be found on their album Christmas Cheers (2007).
Listen to “You’re a Mean One, Mr. Grinch” here!
4. “Lux Aurumque” by Eric Whitacre
“Light and gold” is the English translation of this piece’s title, and no two words could better describe it. Composer Eric Whitacre is a master of chordal structure, tension, and release, and “Lux Aurumque” is a prime example of his exceptional skill. This fabulous choral piece is so breathtakingly ethereal that it sounds like you’re listening to the voices of an angelic choir. The gorgeous melodic lines emanate pure light, and the rich chordal texture sounds like liquid gold. Hearing Eric Whitacre’s music is a truly awe-inspiring experience, and I highly encourage you to give it a listen!
Listen to “Lux Aurumque” here!
5. “I Heard the Bells on Christmas Day” arranged by Casting Crowns
Casting Crowns’ arrangement of I Heard the Bells on Christmas Day is a beautifully pensive piece. Pairing the traditional lyrics with a new melody, the group has created a hauntingly emotional song that matches the somber but hopeful tone of the lyrics perfectly. This thoughtful arrangement is a wonderful reimagination of the old hymn, and it is definitely worth adding to your Christmas playlist.
Listen to “I Heard the Bells on Christmas Day” here!
Whether the songs are new or old, the music of Christmas is one of the best parts of the holiday season. I hope you enjoy these songs and many others over the holidays as you listen to and play the wonderful music of Christmas.
- Jordan Koehlinger, Music Instructor at Vibe Music Academy.
