A Swingin’ Christmas
The Gay Men’s Chorus of Tampa Bay brought irresistible energy and jazzy flair to their concert, “Holly, Jolly, and Gay!”, with a lively performance of Jay Althouse’s arrangement of “A Swingin’ Christmas” at Allendale United Methodist Church in St. Petersburg, Florida, on December 5, 2025. The number added a stylish, upbeat contrast to the program, inviting the audience to experience the holiday season through a toe-tapping, big-band-inspired lens.
From the opening swing rhythms, the chorus established a buoyant groove that immediately set the piece apart. Althouse’s arrangement is playful and rhythmically driven, blending classic swing style with familiar Christmas imagery. The Gay Men’s Chorus of Tampa Bay leaned fully into this character, delivering crisp entrances, buoyant phrasing, and a strong sense of rhythmic precision. Their collective energy made the performance feel lighthearted and infectious.
The chorus demonstrated impressive versatility, shifting seamlessly between smooth, laid-back sections and punchy, syncopated passages. Tight harmonies and clear diction ensured that the text remained engaging and easy to follow, while dynamic contrasts added shape and momentum to the performance. Subtle stylistic touches—such as accented rhythms and expressive articulations—enhanced the swing feel without overwhelming the choral sound.
Allendale United Methodist Church provided a resonant yet clear acoustic, allowing the rhythmic vitality of the arrangement to carry throughout the space. Audience members responded enthusiastically, with visible movement and smiles reflecting the contagious joy of the music. In a concert that balanced reflective moments with high-spirited celebration, “A Swingin’ Christmas” stood out as one of the most purely fun selections of the evening.
Within the broader context of “Holly, Jolly, and Gay!”, this performance showcased the chorus’s ability to blend musical precision with entertainment and charm. By embracing the swing style and holiday spirit wholeheartedly, the Gay Men’s Chorus of Tampa Bay delivered a performance that was both polished and playful. The result was a memorable moment that captured the exuberance, warmth, and celebratory rhythm of the season.