Concert intro & tuning 00:00

Every concert has a “behind-the-scenes” moment before the music truly begins—tuning, last-minute setup, quiet focus, and that buzz in the room when everyone knows it’s almost time. It’s a small peek at the routine that helps young musicians sound like a single ensemble instead of a collection of individual instruments.

Warmups, last-minute adjustments, and that pre-concert buzz.

A Joyful Christmas 04:10

About the piece: “A Joyful Christmas” is often performed as a bright, groove-driven holiday arrangement built on the familiar melody of “Joy to the World”. The repeated rhythmic pattern gives the whole band a steady “pulse” to lock into—great for building confidence and ensemble timing while still sounding festive and full.

Common school-band edition: arr. Victor Lopez (based on “Joy to the World”).

A festive start—listen for the confident ensemble sound and phrasing.

Russian Sleigh Ride 07:04

About the piece: “Russian Sleigh Ride” leans into classic winter imagery—fast motion, crisp accents, and that “bells-in-the-air” sparkle that makes sleigh-ride music feel like it’s gliding forward. Pieces like this are perfect for teaching young bands clean articulation, steady tempo, and clear dynamic contrast (soft snowy moments → big exciting arrivals).

Composer (common edition): Paul Lavender.

Bells, motion, and classic winter energy—great percussion sparkle here.

Highlights from Harry Potter 11:32

About the piece: This is a “greatest-hits” style medley drawn from the Harry Potter film music—big cinematic themes, mysterious textures, and heroic moments that feel instantly recognizable. It’s a fun way for a school band to perform movie-score material while practicing quick mood changes and strong, confident melody playing.

Credits (common edition): music by John Williams, arranged by Michael Story.

Big cinematic moments and softer mystery—dynamic contrast really shines.

Rhode Island Music Education Association feature 15:27

About this moment: This isn’t a musical selection so much as a spotlight on music education in Rhode Island. RIMEA is the state music education association (and an affiliate of NAfME), supporting school music programs through advocacy, professional development, and statewide events—exactly the kind of behind-the-scenes support that helps students get experiences like this concert.

Organization: Rhode Island Music Education Association (RIMEA).

A quick feature highlighting music education support in Rhode Island.

Hey Man, Christmas Rocks 18:55

About the piece: This one is basically a holiday “rock medley”—it mashes familiar Christmas tunes into a high-energy set that switches grooves along the way. You’ll often hear it move through different rock feels (like hard rock, shuffle, and Latin rock), which keeps the audience smiling and keeps the band on their toes rhythmically.

Common school-band edition: arranged by Larry Clark (built on “Jolly Old St. Nicholas,” “Up on the Housetop,” and “Jingle Bells”).

Holiday vibes with extra attitude—punchy articulations and lots of drive.

Santa the Barbarian 24:01

About the piece: This is holiday humor in band form—Santa gets a dramatic “movie trailer” makeover, turning familiar carols into something bold, over-the-top, and action-packed. The fun is in the contrast: you recognize the tunes, but they’re reimagined with heavier rhythms, epic gestures, and tongue-in-cheek intensity.

Composer: Randall D. Standridge (features “Up on the Housetop,” “Jingle Bells,” and “Jolly Old St. Nicholas” in a “barbaric” twist).

Bold and dramatic—listen for section “call and response” moments.

Metal Bell Carol 28:51

About the piece: A holiday closer with serious attitude—“Metal Bell Carol” blends original material with the instantly recognizable Ukrainian Bell Carol (aka “Carol of the Bells”) plus hints of “We Three Kings.” Many versions include optional electric guitar and bass, which gives it that “concert band meets arena rock” feel—perfect for sending the crowd out smiling.

Arranger: Brian Balmages (heavy-metal-inspired holiday spectacular).

A bright closer—crisp, festive textures and plenty of shine.

Extras