Elevate your festive concert with “Merry Christmas, Everyone” – a full-orchestra arrangement by Michael Thomas Andrews, featuring the timeless Shakin’ Stevens classic that topped the UK charts in December 1985. Written by Bob Heatlie and produced by Dave Edmunds, the original song became the UK Christmas Number 1 upon its release and continues to re-enter the charts annually, becoming a beloved staple in holiday season playlists.
This dynamic arrangement is perfect as a concert opener or grand finale, blending symphonic big-band textures with a festive spirit. Highlights include:
A rousing introduction that immediately captures attention
A brilliant trumpet feature that adds sparkle and personality
A dramatic key change mid-piece, delivering a powerful emotional lift
Includes both the full score and individual parts for every section of the orchestra – everything you need to bring this celebratory music to life with freshness while still honoring the original's nostalgic charm.
Why this arrangement works so well:
It taps into the enduring popularity of Shakin’ Stevens’ holiday classic – a song written in a summer heatwave, crafted specifically for him by Bob Heatlie, and postponed a year to avoid competing with Band Aid, ultimately claiming Christmas No 1 in 1985.
Its festive instrumentation of bells, harmonies, and buoyant melodies evokes both nostalgia and exuberance – qualities that make it a powerful crowd-pleaser.
The arrangement’s bold structure – an energetic intro, spotlight trumpet solo, and sweeping key shift – makes it ideal for venues ranging from concert halls to church services, and for ensembles seeking a dramatic, memorable centerpiece.
Elevate your festive concert with “Merry Christmas, Everyone” – a full-orchestra arrangement by Michael Thomas Andrews, featuring the timeless Shakin’ Stevens classic that topped the UK charts in December 1985. Written by Bob Heatlie and produced by Dave Edmunds, the original song became the UK Christmas Number 1 upon its release and continues to re-enter the charts annually, becoming a beloved staple in holiday season playlists.
This dynamic arrangement is perfect as a concert opener or grand finale, blending symphonic big-band textures with a festive spirit. Highlights include:
A rousing introduction that immediately captures attention
A brilliant trumpet feature that adds sparkle and personality
A dramatic key change mid-piece, delivering a powerful emotional lift
Includes both the full score and individual parts for every section of the orchestra – everything you need to bring this celebratory music to life with freshness while still honoring the original's nostalgic charm.
Why this arrangement works so well:
It taps into the enduring popularity of Shakin’ Stevens’ holiday classic – a song written in a summer heatwave, crafted specifically for him by Bob Heatlie, and postponed a year to avoid competing with Band Aid, ultimately claiming Christmas No 1 in 1985.
Its festive instrumentation of bells, harmonies, and buoyant melodies evokes both nostalgia and exuberance – qualities that make it a powerful crowd-pleaser.
The arrangement’s bold structure – an energetic intro, spotlight trumpet solo, and sweeping key shift – makes it ideal for venues ranging from concert halls to church services, and for ensembles seeking a dramatic, memorable centerpiece.
