I'm going to try to post Christmas music again this year just so my blogging doesn't go completely fallow. Lately, I've come across a few "Random Acts of Culture" videos in which incognito choirs burst into the Hallelujah Chorus in public places. I believe they've been very widely viewed, so for today I'm posting this less ambitious but no less enjoyable random act:
The improv group's site, linked at the video on YouTube, tells the story of how they pulled it off.
(Note: This performance also makes a good antidote to the Wonderful Christmastime video D posted below!)
After not being able to get in the car or enter a store between Veterans' Day and Christmas last year without being subjected to "Wonderful Christmastime," I formulated a hypothesis for the source of its inspiration. While I can't prove anything, my scenario goes something like this:
Scene one: The lights go up to reveal not-yet-Sir Paul in his studio on the phone. A large calendar on the wall clearly shows it is November 1.
Paul: What's that? A Christmas Special? An original song? When's the shoot? In a week? Well, I'll see what I can do.
Scene two: Paul is now slumped over a piano, twiddling a pencil. Blank staff paper rests on the music stand. The calendar now has the dates of November 2-6 clearly crossed out. An ice cream truck passes by in the studio window, and a half dozen tinkly notes can be heard as it goes out of sight. He sighs, and scratches on the staff paper. He hums the theme once or twice.
Paul: Not bad. Now for some lyrics. Christmas. I need something Christmassy, but that won't bother anyone who isn't celebrating...(thoughtfully) have a merry...no, the rhythm's wrong...have a wonderful Christmas...better...(singing) may you have a wonderful Christmastime!
[The phone rings]. Paul: Yeah, yeah, it's ready to go! I'll see you in the morning. Toodles!
He addresses the staff paper with renewed vigor as the lights fade out.
