katherineburr

As the festive season (slowly) approaches, choir directors and singers alike are beginning to plan their holiday repertoires. This year, I’m excited to add a touch of classic charm to your celebrations with my new choral arrangement of “2000 Miles” by The Pretenders. This 1983 hit has always been my all-time favourite Christmas song, and I’m thrilled to share my take on this timeless piece with you.

“2000 Miles” has a unique blend of simplicity and beauty, capturing the wistful longing and warmth of the holiday season. I’ve endeavored to maintain the original folksy style throughout my arrangement, ensuring that the song’s heart remains intact. My aim was to create something that feels both nostalgic and fresh, evoking the same emotions that made the original a classic.

One of the highlights of this arrangement is its accessibility. The harmonies are easy to learn, making it a perfect addition for choirs of all levels. Whether you’re leading a group of seasoned vocalists or a community choir, you’ll find that the arrangement allows your singers to shine without the stress of overly complex parts.

To cater to a variety of choir configurations, “2000 Miles” is available in several voicings: SSA, SAB, SATB, and 2-Part Choir – find your copy here. This flexibility ensures that any group can enjoy performing this beautiful song, regardless of their size or vocal makeup. Each voicing has been carefully crafted to maintain the integrity of the original while providing a satisfying choral experience.

Here’s a quick overview of what you can expect from each voicing:

• SSA: Perfect for treble choirs, this version emphasizes the ethereal quality of the song, with soaring harmonies and a warm blend.
• SAB: Designed for mixed choirs with fewer male voices, this arrangement balances the harmony while keeping the folksy charm intact.
• SATB: For traditional mixed choirs, this version offers rich, full harmonies that capture the essence of the original recording.
• 2-Part Choir: Ideal for smaller or less experienced groups and school choirs, this arrangement provides a simpler harmonic structure while still delivering a beautiful performance.

I’m confident that this arrangement of “2000 Miles” will become a favourite in your holiday repertoire. It’s not just a song; it’s a journey through the emotions and memories that make this season so special.