We have a collection of 6 arrangements for Meredith Willson - It's Beginning to Look a Lot Like Christmas
Who's behind the notes? Discover Meredith Willson: The Music Man of Broadway
Meredith Willson was a talented American composer and songwriter, best known for his iconic Christmas song "It's Beginning to Look a Lot Like Christmas." Here are some interesting facts about him and the song:
Early Life and Career: Meredith Willson was born on May 18, 1902, in Mason City, Iowa. He showed an early interest in music and went on to study flute and piccolo at the Juilliard School of Music in New York City.
Radio Background: Before becoming a successful composer, Willson worked in radio, where he conducted orchestras and wrote music for various programs.
Hit Song: "It's Beginning to Look a Lot Like Christmas" was first introduced in 1951 when Willson wrote it for the movie "The Lemon Drop Kid," starring Bob Hope. The song quickly became a holiday classic.
Popular Covers: Over the years, many artists have covered the song, including Bing Crosby, Perry Como, and Johnny Mathis, among others. Each rendition has contributed to the song's enduring popularity.
Lyric Highlights: The song's lyrics vividly describe various signs of the holiday season, such as "candy canes and silver lanes aglow," "toys in every store," and "a pair of hop-a-long boots and a pistol that shoots." These vivid images contribute to its enduring appeal.
Musical Versatility: Meredith Willson was known for his versatility as a composer. In addition to "It's Beginning to Look a Lot Like Christmas," he composed the highly successful musical "The Music Man," which featured memorable songs like "76 Trombones."
Christmas Traditions: The song has become closely associated with the holiday season and is frequently played on the radio and in stores during the Christmas season. It has become a staple of holiday music playlists.
Recognition and Awards: Meredith Willson received numerous accolades for his contributions to music and entertainment. He won a Grammy Award for Best Original Cast Album for "The Music Man" in 1958.
Legacy: Meredith Willson's music, including "It's Beginning to Look a Lot Like Christmas" and "The Music Man," continues to be celebrated and enjoyed by people of all ages during the holiday season.
Mason City, Iowa: Willson's hometown of Mason City, Iowa, celebrates his legacy with the annual Meredith Willson Festival, which features performances of his music and other activities dedicated to his memory.
"It's Beginning to Look a Lot Like Christmas" remains a beloved holiday song that captures the joy and excitement of the Christmas season, thanks to the creative genius of Meredith Willson.