The Holly and the Ivy [Alf:00-37790]

Adorn your holiday concerts with this charming new setting of a familiar English carol. To open, we hear a jubilant proclamation leading to a presentation of the melody in 4/4 by the trumpets, supported with clarinets and light percussion. Soon, the low brass revels in the theme while the woodwinds festoon and decorate. Spirits are lifted with a change of key until we are gradually transported to a gentle variation in 3/4 where all is calm. It isn't long before we hear the exuberant melody again and all is brought to a joyous conclusion. You'll be programming this one for years to come.