Mixed Bag No. 6-Graham Lyons’s lively mind is apparent in this arrangement of Christmas carols for wind ensemble created to mixed-ability ensembles to make music together. Part I is the most demanding while Parts 2 and 3 are more simplified. Then there are ‘filler’ parts for beginning musicians. The parts can be doubled however your needs and tastes desire. The sheet music includes a score and double sets of parts and is sure to be a concert favourite includingmelodies of The Wassail Song The Holly and The Ivy Away in a Manger The Coventry Carol and Unto Us A Boy Is Born.Graham Lyons is something of a polymath which is not that unusual among musicians. Originally a pianist heswitched to clarinet when he was inspired by Benny Goodman but he also plays jazz bassoon. Lyons has performed with Orchestras and ensembles throughout the world both in live performance and on broadcasts and recordings. Hehas written a book on Soviet international policy. If you or your students began your clarinet career on a Clarineo a scaled-down instrument appropriate for younger students then you have Lyons to thank as he is its inventor.

If there ever was a melody that instantly identified the holiday season, this is it! Each year the sounds of Sleigh Ride surround us in recorded format and in live sound in almost every venue and on almost every concert program. Michael Story has scored this timeless work for the younger or less experienced ensemble and has successfully kept the original flavor and structure. This is a meaningful holiday work arranged for your band. (2:27)