In 1897, eight-year-old Virginia O’Hanlon wrote a letter to the editors of The New York Sun to inquire about the existence of Santa Claus. Francis Pharcellus Church, an editor at the paper, received her letter – and even though his personal beliefs on the topic differed – he penned a response filled with such warmth, optimism and love. “Is There A Santa Claus?” has become Christmas and holiday folklore that has brought joy to millions of people. It is also one of the most reprinted editorials in the English language. I hope that the music I have composed, to accompany this prose, delivers the same sense of magical wonderment that this letter has brought me for so many years.

Orchestra with Narrator*: ca. 9 minutes

Difficulty: Professional

Instrumentation: Piccolo, 2 Flutes, Oboe, English Horn, 2 Bassoons, Contrabassoon, 3 Bb Clarinets, Bb Bass Clarinet, Bb Contrabass Clarinet, Bb Soprano Saxophone, Eb Alto Saxophone, Bb Tenor Saxophone, Eb Baritone Saxophone, 4 F Horns, 3 Bb Trumpets, 3 Trombones, Bass Trombone, Euphonium, Tuba, String Bass, Harp, Synth Celesta (If performing on real Celesta, play entire part 8vb), Timpani, Mallet Percussion, (Glockenspiel, Vibraphone, Chimes), Percussion, (Sleigh Bells, Suspended Cymbal, Triangle, Mark Tree, Bell Tree, Piatti, Narration (2 Speakers: Child & Adult)

*Yes, Virginia! can also be performed, in its entirety, without narration. 

A portion of all proceeds from YES, VIRGINIA! will be donated to charities benefiting children.