Download   Okay, back to the basics and simple arrangements.  This Christmas classic was written in 1951 by Meredith Willson, best known for writing the book, music and lyrics to the Broadway musical “The Music Man”.  The original title was “It’s Beginning to Look Like Christmas” – one of those “the lyrics don’t fit the melody” kind of things.

Anyway, Willson wrote the song while staying at a Grand Hotel in Nova Scotia.  The lyrics make reference to a  “tree in the Grand Hotel/one in the park as well”.  The park was “Frost Park”, located directly across from that same hotel operating in a newer building to this day.

“Alvin and the Chipmunks” covered the song in 1961 and again in 1981 – and it was a big hit in both years.  Hey… if Alvin covers a tune, it must be good.  Never underestimate a chipmunk.

Additional note:  I detest playing Broadway-style arrangements – but sometimes ya gotta suck it up for the sake of the music.  ‘Tis the season, after all.