The melody of “O Tannenbaum” (German – “fir tree”) is an old folk tune of uncertain origin, with lyrics written in 1824 by German organist, educator and composer Ernst Anschutz. It is not clear how the tune and text became so closely associated with Christmas, except that the custom of decorated fir trees at Christmas developed in Germany in the 15th–16th century.
This arrangement begins with a respectful statement of the tune in the traditional 3/4 meter, followed by a swinging treatment in 4/4, including a walking bass line, written solos, and a surprise or two in the “shout” chorus before recapitulating the opening statement.
Score, parts (Bb tpt. 1, Bb tpt. 2, F horn, tbn, tuba) — $12.99
See more Advent and Christmas Music for Brass Quintet | See all Brass Quintets