Nice December Days

by Teresa Jennings, Paul Jennings, John Riggio, and Mike Wilson

We're delighted to bring you this collection of festive songs that celebrate all things December. In a wide variety of styles, and with lots of options for solos, part singing, movement, and even non-pitched percussion, these eight holiday songs include:

In December - Is it true? Do we actually feel better, act better, see the world in a better light during December? Perhaps. That's the question this song posits in a delightful, upbeat, and dare we say, merry sort of way.
Sugarplum Dancing - Inspired more than a little bit by the "Dance Of The Sugar Plum Fairy" from Tchaikovsky's The Nutcracker Suite, this lighthearted piece is part hip hop, part classical, and all fun.
Things You Put On A Christmas Tree - This is a downright Christmassy song to use in your holiday program! Options abound, but no matter how you decorate your tree, this song celebrates it. It's simple to sing, though there is some syncopation in the melody. Jingle bells keep the pulse and add to the jolly feel, and pizzicato strings throughout give the song a festive lilt.
Up On The Roof - Whatever could that sound on the roof be? Okay, maybe the "Ho ho ho" gives it away a little. The fun of this song is its mysterious air, made more compelling by its funky groove. This song is also a great chance to feature some of your students playing Boomwhackers® and non-pitched percussion (jingle bells, cowbells, and hand drums), all optional.
Dancer And Prancer - Simple, fun, and repetitive, this lively swing tune is easy to learn and remember, which makes it perfect for your younger performers. In fact, once they learn it, the story song can pretty much stay out of the way so that you can feature your own dancers and prancers (if you're so inclined).
Christmas, Christmas! - Take an upbeat '80s pop style arrangement, flavor it with a countrified guitar riff, add jingle bells, and you've got a perfect song for your Christmas program! This will be a quick learn for even your young choir. And to make sure it stays light, verse two pokes a little fun at the figgy pudding verse of "We Wish You A Merry Christmas."
A Nice December Day - It seems that in December, many days turn out to be quite nice. The flexibility of this topic allows you to use it in just about any of your seasonal programs, and this sweet and gentle song is perfect for considering this concept. And, the option of beginning it with a soloist lends itself well to the overall feeling.
Boxing Day - Boxing Day is the day after Christmas, and is celebrated in countries like the United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and others. The song reviews some history about how the holiday began and how it is often celebrated today.