“Russian Christmas Music” was written by Alfred Reed in 1944 and became not only his most famous work but also one of the most played works for concert band. Amazingly, Reed wrote the score and parts in just 16 days, back when everything had to be done by hand. The one-movement work is divided into four sections, ending with “Cathedral Chorus,” the snippet in the accompanying video.

Santa Clara Vanguard’s version came from the opener of its costumed spectacular, which was just a tenth of a point away from winning the World Championship title. Crossmen’s rendition is from the climax of its production; the second of five times the corps has performed the work.

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