what's this nightmare before christmas sheet music

2 min read 22-12-2024

what's this nightmare before christmas sheet music

The Nightmare Before Christmas is a beloved Halloween and Christmas classic. Its hauntingly beautiful score, composed by Danny Elfman, is just as iconic as the film itself. For many musicians, obtaining the sheet music to "What's This?" is a must-have. This article will guide you through finding and playing this enchanting piece.

Finding "What's This?" Sheet Music: Options Galore

Securing the official sheet music for "What's This?" can be a bit of a quest, as there isn't one single, definitive source. However, several avenues exist catering to different skill levels and preferences.

1. Official Publications (Often Arranged for Specific Instruments)

While a complete, readily available collection of all the film's music isn't commonly found, you might discover arrangements for specific instruments via official music publishers like Alfred Music or Hal Leonard. These tend to be more accurate but may be costly and specific to piano, voice, or perhaps a specific ensemble. Check their websites and major online music retailers.

2. Third-Party Arrangements & Online Retailers

Numerous third-party sellers on sites like eBay, Amazon, and Etsy offer sheet music arrangements for "What's This?". These are often less expensive than official publications but may vary in quality. Carefully scrutinize reviews and previews before purchasing to gauge accuracy and clarity. Be aware that some might be transcriptions rather than officially licensed arrangements.

3. Digital Downloads & Print-at-Home Options

Websites like Musicnotes.com and SheetMusicPlus.com are treasure troves of digital sheet music. You can often find various arrangements of "What's This?" for different instruments and skill levels, which you then download and print. This is a convenient option, allowing you to choose arrangements that best suit your needs and budget. Again, always check reviews.

4. Transcription Services & DIY Approaches (For Advanced Musicians)

For highly skilled musicians, transcription services or even creating your own arrangement from a recording are possibilities. However, this requires considerable musical expertise and ear training. This is a viable route if you can't find a suitable arrangement elsewhere.

Choosing the Right "What's This?" Sheet Music: Factors to Consider

Several factors should guide your decision when selecting your sheet music:

Skill Level: Select an arrangement appropriate for your musical abilities. Beginner arrangements will be simplified, while advanced versions will be more challenging and faithful to the original.
Instrumentation: Determine which instrument you'll be playing. Arrangements are available for piano, voice, guitar, ukulele, and various ensembles.
Arrangement Style: Some arrangements might stick closely to the original, while others may incorporate unique stylistic choices.
Quality: Examine reviews and previews before purchasing to ensure accuracy, clarity, and readability.
Price: Prices can vary widely depending on the source, arrangement, and publisher.

Beyond "What's This?": Exploring Other Nightmare Before Christmas Sheet Music

While "What's This?" is a popular choice, remember the film's score is filled with other memorable songs. Explore sheet music for pieces like "Jack's Lament," "Oogie Boogie's Song," or "This is Halloween." Similar resources mentioned above can help you locate these arrangements.

Conclusion: Embracing the Musical Magic of "What's This?"

Finding the perfect "What's This?" sheet music may require some searching, but the reward is well worth the effort. Whether you're a seasoned musician or just starting, playing this iconic tune brings the magic of The Nightmare Before Christmas to life in a unique and personal way. Remember to always choose reputable sources and arrangements that match your musical capabilities. Happy playing!