O Tannenbaum (O Christmas Tree) is a German Christmas song. Based on a traditional 15th century folk song it became associated with the fir tree, traditionally used as a Christmas tree in German tradition.
O Tannenbaum (O Christmas Tree) is a German Christmas song. Based on a traditional 15th century folk song it became associated with the fir tree, traditionally used as a Christmas tree in German tradition. By the early 20th century it was being sung as a Christmas carol. The modern lyrics were written in 1824 by Ernst Anschütz, sourcing his material from an old 16th century Silesian folk song by Melchior Frank. My arrangement presents the traditional material in a full-on, big band swing style.
Jock McKenzie studied trumpet at the Royal Northern College of Music, Manchester where he was a joint recipient of the college’s concerto prize. Since 1987 Jock has based his musical career in Hampshire, working as a freelance trumpeter, conductor, composer, arranger and brass teacher. Currently Jock holds the position of Professional Leader (Brass) for Hampshire Music Service and is the Director of the Hampshire County Youth Band. It is the mix of all of these musical roles that has led to Jock establishing a reputation as a leading creator of brass music resources, particularly in the field of education and brass ensemble music. In 2020 Jock was awarded an "Honary Fellowship of the University of Winchester" for services to music education. Currently Jock is working part-time for the Royal Welsh College of Music and Drama; providing tuition for the Brass Teaching Module. In 2024 Jock was given the award for "Services to Youth" by Brass Bands England.
