Original subtitles

♪

Downloaded from YTS.MX

Official YIFY movies site: YTS.MX

♪

So, Jessica, just to be clear--

Given the merger, there are now going to be two music programs?

For now.

Can you reach this hook? You're taller than me.

Already decorating for Christmas, huh?

My therapist told me to find things to keep my mind

off the merger. Something less stressful.

Like Christmas.

Less stressful... like Christmas...right.

I know you hate it, Diana, but just give me this.

Hang this for me.

Oh, I'm feeling better already.

The merger's gone that badly, huh?

Merging an all-girls school with an all-boys school...

are you kidding?

There are so many issues to resolve.

(whistling)

(TAP-TAP-TAP)

GET YOUR HANDS OFF HER!

♪

Making sure that proper behavior is observed.

Trying to make sure that the existing facilities

are co-educational.

♪

Hello, boys.

Even the little things like merging our athletic program.

But the thing I hate most of all?

Eliminating unnecessary ...duplication.

Okay, now I'm stressed out.

I'm gonna-- Go set up for class.

The composers have been arguing for years

about what feeling certain keys convey.

For example, C-major is usually thought of

as bright and sunny. But...

(music being played)

Composer Hecter Barlio, 1803 to 1869

called C-major serious, deaf and dull.

(music being played louder)

B-minor is about accepting one's fate!

It's usually referred to as the key of patience!

(music being played)

Which I have no more of!

Okay!

I can't take this anymore.

I'll be back in a minute, just shout quietly

amongst yourselves in the meantime--

(music)

(music)

Can I talk to you for a minute?!

Hi, can I talk to you for a minute?!

I can't hear you!

CAN I TALK TO YOU FOR A MINUTE?!

Woah! Stop, stop-- Stop, stop, stop, stop--

Excellent. I love it.

Five minutes, I'll be right back.

What was that all about?

What?

That...noise.

It's called rhythm.

You know, as in, "I got..."

Really, because I call it pounding as in headache.

I'm trying to teach a music class right next door.

What do you think I'm doing?

Well, pounding everything in sight isn't exactly music.

It's self-expression.

Yeah, well, so are facial tattoos,

but I don't think we should be encouraging those.

Well you can't make music without a beat.

And if you'll excuse me, I've got students waiting.

(sigh)

Can you--

Wow.

Hi--

Sorry about that. Sorry--

(music being played)

(scoffing)

I can't hear myself think--

...teach the basics of rhythm.

There are things called textbooks.

You can't teach music from a book.

Really? What you think I've been doing?

Don't you know either?

Very funny.

Look, I'm just trying to teach my students

the fundamentals and history of music.

I think that's important--

All I'm trying to do is teach these kids

to find music within themselves--

ENOUGH!

Now, please stop arguing about who is teaching the right way.

Just be thankful you've got jobs.

Are you trying to tell us something?

Nothing specific, no.

It's just that we're under budgetary pressures

and as usual the first things to get trimmed are the arts.

And here we are with two music teachers

who cannot agree on what to teach.

It's just that without--

...these kids, they have the music within them--

No, no, this, this--

Is exactly what I mean.

Now, look, we all agree that music is a vital part

of education, but eventually I am going to have to face

the board who sit there behind there ledgers

and they're going to want proof.

I don't know how I can prove something like that. I mean--

With public support.

If you can get the alumni and the parents

to protect the program, then you've got a chance

at keeping the program alive.

We could organize a recital.

Forget recitals. The only people who come to recitals

are the ones who like the music program already.

No, no, we need a bigger tent.

Now, here--

Have a look at that.

Christmas song contest.

Could be interesting.

Forget interesting, this is going to be televised.

That is the kind of exposure we need.

Yeah, gee... if I may, it just seems like

we may be exploiting the students.

I'll do it.

Good.

How about you, Ken? In or out?

Kasdan and Cresswell can submit two entrees?

It says-- It says right here--

One entry per music program.

Since we have two separate music programs still,

I don't see why you both can't enter.

You realize, don't you, that eventually

your positions will be merged.

The board will have to choose one of you

as a sole music director.

Well, would winning this contest help?

It certainly couldn't hurt.

I'm in.

Me too.

Good.

Well, then may the best music director win.

Give 'em a call...

♪

So, we've got a judge with a musical background.

We'll be relying on her opinion,

but also the phone and text votes for each competitor.

That's actually pasty--

Excuse me?

Uh, sorry, I was thinking about something else.

Uh, any-who, we're looking for teams.

So, duos are preferred but we will take a trio.

Absolutely not--

Oh, we weren't planning on doing a trio anyway, so...

Yeah, uh--

What?

No, no, no, when I said absolutely not--

I meant a tie. I was talking about a tie.

Right, right-- What about a tie?

What happens in the case of a tie?

Well, the right one... makes my eyes pop.

I'm sorry, I'm not following--

What?

Look, it's very simple.

Any Christmas carol, any arrangements.

It could be classic, it could be contemporary.

Contemporary--

Classic--

Like I said, it's your call.

The publicity from this thing is fantastic.

So is the $10,000 prize.

Sounds good.

I'll be signing up.

Yeah, me too!

Perfect.

(singing loudly) ♪ Jingle all the waaaaay! ♪

I forget the rest.

You know, don't even worry about it.

Thank you.

(yelling) ♪ Deck the halls with boughs of holly! ♪

♪ Fa-la-la-la-la, la-la-la-la! ♪

♪ 'Tis the season to be jolly! ♪

♪ Fa-la-la-la-la, la-la-la-laaaaaa-- ♪

Great! Thank you.

Thank you...

Hey, I know her.

She's in my fourth period class.

I hope she's better at history than she is at singing.

Come on, of all the girls you've heard,

there has to be at least two you can work with.

The only one I like is Liz Strade.

You gotta be kidding.

The girl voted most likely to?

What's that supposed to mean?

Hello, boys.

I'm--

You're right.

I shouldn't say that, but--

She's kind of the original party girl.

(singing well) ♪ Silent night...

♪ Holy night...

♪ All is calm, all is bright. ♪

♪ 'Round yon virgin, mother and child... ♪

♪ Holy infant so tender and mild. ♪

♪ Sleep in heavenly peace... ♪

♪ Sleep in heavenly peace. ♪

She has a good voice.

I mean, she's a little untrained--

Yeah, no kidding she's untrained.

She's too busy having a good time.

You know, I think this could be different.

I mean, she's obviously got a healthy ego.

Obviously...

This is a chance to showcase herself,

If she doesn't put the work in,

she's the one who comes across looking bad.

Yeah, maybe...

Hey-- What about Amy Barns?

She didn't audition.

Awww... That's too bad.

She babysits for me sometimes,

and she sings when she puts Harry down.

She has a beautiful voice.

Really?

Yeah.

I don't think I've ever heard her say anything.

I know, she's kind of shy.

Well, that could be a problem for a television appearance.

No matter how good her voice is.

Yeah. But, you know,

it could also help bring her out of her shell.

Well, with all due respect, I've got bigger things

to worry about than bringing Amy out of her shell.

Gedler as much as told me that this could mean my job.

Wow.

And you're relying on Liz Strade to keep it.

♪

What's, uh...

What's up with the singers? You got your two singers yet?

Singers, yes!

Yes, I do.

Talk to me.

This one kid, uh, Billy Warren--

(singing well) ♪ God rest, ye merry gentlemen, ♪

♪ let nothing you dismay. ♪

♪ Remember Christ our Saviour was born on Christmas day. ♪

♪ To save us all from Satan's power... ♪

Billy is like the golden boy of the place.

He's good-looking, he's an athlete.

His parents are loaded,

and it turns out, he's got a great singing voice.

♪ ...And joy.

Of course, I'm taking a chance using the kid.

He's arrogant, and disruptive in class.

You know the type.

Well, every class has got one, right?

What about the other one?

Uh, he's also a surprise.

New kid, Carlo.

(singing well) ♪ Oh, Christmas tree,

♪ oh, Christmas tree...

♪ Thy leaves are so unchanging. ♪

♪ Not only green when summer's here... ♪

Carlo, he's as smart as they come.

But, I think he's had a hard time fitting in.

Maybe the contest will help break the ice.

He's got a great voice too.

♪ ...thy leaves are so unchanging... ♪

Amy?

Yes, Ms. Deason?

Can I speak to you for a minute?

I was hoping you were gonna turn out for auditions last week.

Oh, I'm not comfortable singing in front of a crowd of people.

Well, Mrs. Hammond's heard you and she says you're very good.

She's just being nice.

Would you consider singing for me and letting me decide?

Now?

Uh...

But everyone would hear me.

Come here-- Come on in--

Um, it's just the two of us.

You could sing just a couple of bars acapella.

I-- I'll even turn around.

And just pretend you're singing a baby to sleep.

Any Christmas carol you want.

I'll turn around.

(singing nervously) ♪ The holly and the ivy...

♪ When they are both full grown... ♪

♪ Of all the trees that are in the wood... ♪

♪ The holly bares the crown. ♪

♪ Oh, the rising of the sun... ♪

♪ And the running of the deer. ♪

♪ The plain of the merry organ, ♪

♪ sweet singing in the choir. ♪

Amy-- I really want you in this contest.

I can't sing in front of people.

But you'd be ready and rehearsed

and you wouldn't be up there alone.

I think this could be a really good experience for you.

I'll think about it.

Think you could let me know by the end of today?

Yeah.

Amy!

I just--

I just want you to know that no matter

what you decide, you are very, very good.

Thanks.

♪

♪

Hi.

Good lunch?

I'm guessing you want to tell me something.

Ask...actually.

I need a huge favour.

Do you think you could possibly substitute as a chaperone

for me at the winter formal this Saturday?

I agreed to do it, but out of nowhere Scott proposed

this big, romantic weekend in the mountains, so--

Fun!

Yeah, but I mean, if you're busy-- You know.

Me? No, no, no-- I've got nothing on.

Go have fun with your husband.

Okay, thank you.

Promise I'll make it up to you.

Don't sweat it. I've got nothing happening Saturday.

Well, that's what I kinda figured--

Um...

I didn't, actually, I was hoping--

Wow. That's not much better either.

That's fine.

Nope.

I'm so sorry. I shouldn't have presumed.

Look, we're friends.

You know how my weekends are, it's fine.

I do know what your weekends are like.

We need to change that.

Agreed. But, I guess after the winter formal--

Yeah... if you're all right about that...

Yeah, that's fine.

Thank you.

♪

Hello?

I was assigned to keep an eye on the parking lot with you.

Oh-- Hi.

Oh, I didn't know it was gonna be you.

Yeah, I was just a last minute replacement--

Filling in for Jill.

Ah.

It's a little early for the winter formal, isn't it?

Yeah.

Coach Willis doesn't like it interfering

with basketball practice in the winter, so--

Right, of course. I should have known.

Everything revolves around sports.

Yep.

Why let a silly thing like the seasons switch you up?

No, you kids cannot be out here.

Hi, hi--

It's Ken and, um--

Diana.

(laughing) I thought you were a couple.

I guess I better get that laser eye surgery, huh?

Well, glad to see you two finally getting along.

See ya inside.

Okay...

Okay.

Hmmm...they must consider this a pretty important post.

Getting two people to patrol it like this, huh?

Are you kidding?

Parking lot of a high school dance?

Number one action spot. Don't you remember?

(laughing)

No, I was, uh, more likely to be in the band

than on the dance floor, to tell you the truth.

And our family vehicle was actually a hearse.

You're kidding.

No, no, my stepdad was an undertaker.

(laughing)

He didn't see reason to buy a new vehicle

we had a perfectly good 1972 "death master" in the garage.

Well, we had an AMC Pacer that was not only

the ugliest car ever built, but it was completely glass

so you could see through it.

My dad knew exactly what he was doing when he bought that car.

(laughing) I bet.

Look at this--

(laughing)

(tap-tap-tap) Hey--

Come on, guys. You know better than this.

Inside.

You can't hangout out here.

Inside.

So, you were in a band, huh?

Uh...yeah, yeah, yeah. I was...um--

Any good?

We thought we were, but we really weren't.

Oh, you were probably better than you think.

We weren't.

(laughing)

What'd your parents think about that?

Oh, God, my mom hated...HATED the idea

that I wanted to become a musician.

Totally fought me every step of the way.

So, she was overjoyed when I actually got

my education degree.

What about you? Are you a performer?

Um...obligatory piano, recitals,

that sort of thing, but no real performing, no.

Yeah?

You sure that's not you tickling the ivories

to Billy Joel's lesser known Turn-styles album?

No, I sort of tend more to a Chopin Polonaise.

Right, right-- Well, you're very good.

I've heard you play for your class.

Thank you.

Good enough for a high school class,

but not quite good enough to perform.

No, don't sell yourself short.

I've heard professional keyboardists who aren't

half as good as you are.

Oh, yeah, but that's pop. That's not as demanding.

What? Popular music isn't demanding?

Um...

No. Not really. Not if you want me to be honest.

So, anyone can do it?

Well, no-- I mean, it's usually three or four chords

played over and over again, in not much of a melody.

Yeah, but you have to feel it though.

That's the difference. You can't hide behind technique.

You don't just rely on technique,

you do require skill to learn it.

And discipline.

Yeah, it's gotta come from the heart.

There's no reason the brain can't get involved, though.

Oh, so pop music is mindless?

I didn't say that. Why you putting words in my mouth?

I'm not putting words in your mouth, just repeating

what I'm hearing here. That's it.

Let's just stop arguing about this. It's silly--

Who's arguing?

We're not arguing, we're just talking about what we think.

Well, you want to know what I think?

I think I'm going to beat you in this contest.

Okay, maybe if all the judges are over 80

you might have a chance.

O...kay.

Wow.

Well, we'll see.

Yeah--

Yes...we will.

♪

You made the right choice. I promise.

Christmas carols can be a lot of fun.

We don't really celebrate Christmas at my house.

Don't celebrate Christmas?

Who doesn't celebrate Christmas?

My mom thinks that consumerism has corrupted the message.

Well, you don't have to celebrate Christmas

to enjoy the music. Take it from me.

Liz, Amy-- Amy, Liz.

Hey!

Hey--

So, can I just tell you? I'm like crazy excited.

I've never been on television before.

Well, except on youtube.

You're on youtube?

Someone posted a clip of me at a party.

I didn't find out until a week later.

By that time, it already had 300 likes.

Okay-- You know, let's, uh--

Let's get started.

I want you to take this home, work on it on your own

before we start putting it together.

What song did you pick?

Here you go.

Angels we have heard on high?

In two-part harmony.

What's the matter?

My mother sings this. In church.

It's totally lame.

Then it will be up to us to make it exciting.

We'll sound like old bags singing this.

It's all in the arrangement, I promise.

Let's at least try it.

I mean...yeah it's really old-fashioned,

but it's got a basic melody that we could really embellish.

Embellish?

It means, you know, decorate.

I know what it means.

I've just-- I've never heard

anyone use it in conversation before.

Just try it.

If the arrangement's too complicated, I could help you.

I think I can figure it out for myself, thanks.

See ya.

Bye, Liz...

Don't worry about her.

She'll be fine when she starts working on the material.

You just learn your part.

You can be the good example.

Right, Ms. Deason.

Diana!

I'm glad I got you before you left.

Do you have plans for next Saturday night?

Um...not that I'm aware of, no.

Well, then I apologize for the late invitation,

but I am hoping you can join me for Christmas dinner practice.

Christmas dinner practice?

Yeah.

It's part of my stress reduction program.

I have always been concerned about Christmas dinner

being perfect, but no longer.

Okay!

I'm having a trial run.

You're making Christmas dinner twice.

(laughing) Right.

And...that's going to be less stressful?

This way I can get food reviews

before I serve it to the real guests.

Oh-- Not that you're not a real guest.

So, it wouldn't just be me?

Oh, no, no, no!

I need more than one opinion.

My nephew will be coming.

He has just come out of a very serious relationship

and I would like him to meet somebody special.

He is a great guy.

I think you two would really hit it off.

So-- Will I see you then?

Well, if it's going to help relieve your stress, why not?

Shall we say...five o'clock for drinkies?

Five o'clock for drinkies, it is.

And...thank you.

No...

Thank you.

♪

(sigh)

How do you do?

My name's Diana.

(ding-dong)

Hi!

I'm Diana.

You can call me Deedee.

Deedee??

Who calls me Deedee?

Hi...I'm Diana.

You can call me anytime.

Hello?

Hi!

(laughing)

Oh, Diana, don't you look lovely.

Oh, thank you.

Brought you a bottle of pinot.

Unfortunately, my nephew won't be able to join us.

His car broke down.

Oh...

But, it's all right,

I've invited somebody else from school. Come--

Hey--

Hey.

♪

So, how is the stuffing?

Oh, it's--

Excellent.

Do you like the tarragon? Did you taste it?

I think so, yeah--

Is there enough onion?

I thought so--

Don't know if it's spicy enough...

I know some people say spice rub,

but I say, wrong, wrong, wrong!

A spice rub is okay for the skin, but to get down,

DEEP into the meat, nothing beats deep brining.

That's what my dad always used to say...

Every Christmas we would brine the turkey together.

Brining.

No! Deep brining.

Of course--

Well then!

Ugh--

Well, then, I'll clear the table for dessert--

Oh, hey, let me do it--

Oh, no!

I got it.

I'll get this--

No, no, no, no, no.

I've got a system, you'll just be in the way.

Are you sure? I mean--

Oh...

I think I'm going to need a little fresh air.

Counteract the trictophin.

Hey-- I'll join you.

Do you know what would be fabulous?

I'm already done decorating the front yard,

but I haven't finished the backyard yet.

You decorate the backyard too?

Well, it's the little things that make the holiday perfect.

The devil is in the details.

Right--

Like deep brining.

You see, he gets it... he gets it.

He's been around the block more than a few times.

I think you're wonderful, Ken.

Oh--

Okay. Thank you.

I, uh...

This wonderful person's gonna help put up Christmas

lights in the backyard. How about that?

O...kay!

Okay.

Well...then--

Here--

Whoops--

Give me a hand with this--

Yup, sure. I got that--

Now--

All right, but no shop talk!

All right?

Let's just forget about school this weekend.

All right?

We'll do our best.

(laughing)

Okay. Have fun.

She hasn't finished decorating the backyard?

Wow!

Hey, listen-- I'm actually glad we got this time

alone together, because I just wanted to apologize.

You know, there's no need for us to argue.

It's ridiculous.

I mean, we're mature, responsible adults.

And we're acting like third-graders.

Right?

Truce?

Truce.

(laughing)

You know, this used to be my favourite part

of the Christmas meal.

Not the eating until you're stuffed,

but the conversation afterwards.

It's different than the talking before?

Oh, yeah. Sure. Absolutely.

You know, before it's all catching up and you know,

what's going on in your life, blah, blah, blah--

But, after, everybody's just sort of skirting

on the edge of falling asleep.

People tend to...

talk a bit slower, they let their guard down.

And it's less about just socializing than it is

really communicating. You know what I mean?

I never thought about it like that before.

Yeah, well-- I have my moments.

Colder than I thought out here, Gonna get my other coat--

No, no, here-- Take mine.

Oh-- No, you'll catch cold.

Ah, don't be silly. I insist.

I'm hot-blooded. I'm never cold.

It's true.

Are you sure?

Yes, absolutely. I insist.

Okay!

So...

Now what?

You know, I'm glad Jessica invited me over tonight,

because, um...

I was actually planning on cleaning out my cupboards.

Oh, that's depressing.

I like to do mine at Christmas.

What?? Christmas? How dare you?

Christmas is supposed to be all...

you know, music and parties and lights and mistletoe.

And biting the head off of delicious gingerbread men,

right?

Well, at least we've got the contest to look forward to.

You're not really looking forward to it, are you?

Of course. Aren't you?

No. Not at all.

I can't wait for it to be over.

You really like things like that?

Well... you can't win if you don't compete.

Wow, you're the second person who's told me that this week.

Oh, you're gonna be fine.

You'll be fine.

(laughing)

Thank you.

Yeah, I'm sure I will, too.

Well, then--

Let the best coach win.

Wow--

Ohhh!

Who's ready for some coco bouche de noel?

Huh?

♪

(music being played)

Nice.

Ah! Oh, there he is!

Sorry. Lost track of time.

It's okay, but just please, please,

in the future try to be on time. Okay?

Uh, Billy, Carlo-- Carlo, Billy--

You know each other?

Hi.

Hey.

He's the other singer?

Yes, he is.

Yeah.

He's fantastic. He gave a great audition.

You both did.

We're gonnna win this thing.

Cool.

So, what are we singing?

Uh... I haven't decided yet.

But, I will let you know as soon as I do.

And I'll have a rehearsal schedule posted as well.

Well, I'm available pretty much whenever, so--

Perfect.

I have to work around wrestling practice.

(sigh)

Billy, I told you at the audition if you were chosen,

it would have to take priority, right?

Yeah, but I'm captain of the team now.

I kind of have to show up.

Don't worry. I'll figure something out.

See ya.

Come ready to work!

You got it!

(piano)

♪ Angels we have heard on high... ♪

♪ Sweetly singing ore the plains... ♪

♪ And the mountains in reply... ♪

♪ Echoing their joyous strains. ♪

Liz, you're singing behind the beat.

I always sing behind the beat.

Well, you can't when you have a partner, though.

That's what the notes are for.

Let's just-- Let's try it one more time. Okay?

(piano)

♪ Angels we have heard on high... ♪

♪ Sweetly singing ore the plains... ♪

♪ And the mountains in reply... ♪

♪ Echoing their joyous strains. ♪

That was good.

Perfectly together, pitch is great,

but Amy, you're partners with Liz, not backup.

So, just raise your voice a bit.

While we stopped, have we thought

about how we want to stage this?

Stage it?

Yeah, I was thinking just simple.

We just play to the camera.

So, say that's you--

♪ Angels we have heard on high... ♪

♪ Sweetly singing ore the plains... ♪

I don't think I can do that...

Liz...no.

The camera will love it.

Yeah, it's--

It's a Christmas carol, though.

That doesn't mean we can't sell it.

Let's just rely on our mastery of the material.

Okay?

You want to win?

You use every trick you've got up your sleeve.

All right, this time let's just sing every single word

exactly together, okay?

That's what the beat's for.

(piano)

♪ Angels we have heard on high... ♪

♪ Sweetly singing ore the plains... ♪

♪ And the mountains in reply... ♪

♪ Echoing their joyous strains. ♪

Diana-- A word.

I just learned that Estelle Barlow is judging the contest.

Who's she?

She is an alumna of this school!

Wouldn't that be a conflict of interest?

I mean, the TV station might disqualify her.

I don't think so.

She owns the TV station.

Then that's great for us, isn't it?

I don't know.

She may hold you to a higher standard to appear unbiased,

you know?

Is she a musician?

Well-- Let's just that she's--

She's very enthusiastic about the arts, but she doesn't--

Doesn't really know anything about them.

So... how's she going to judge?

Well, she's going to rely very heavily on the phone-in vote.

Well, if she's insecure, she might just go

for the tried and true sort of classical Christmas carol.

That's true.

Or, you know, she may want to push the envelope

and award the prize to something

I don't know new and exciting.

You two cannot second guess this too much.

Just make sure that your teams are good,

because she will be watching you especially closely.

We'll be ready.

♪

Oh!

We're gonna knock 'em dead.

♪

Hey!

Sorry, guys. Wrestling ran over.

We did talk about this, correct?

Right.

Yeah. There's only a few weeks left before the contest.

Yep. But, it's one song.

I mean, how long could it take?

That's up to you.

But, it's got to be perfect.

Okay.

So, what are we singing?

You're singing...

The First Noel.

You're kidding, right?

Nope.

You know it?

Well, yeah, everyone does.

It's the same old da-da-dum song, right?

I mean, it's really boring.

Not necessarily.

Well, yeah, sure the basic motif is simple,

but we can go in a lot of directions with it.

Like what?

Okay, yeah-- Well, for example think of it as a boogie-woogie.

You know, that same repeating base line.

You can do anything. Like a doo-wop, or an up tempo--

Could even do a disco beat if you wanted.

(laughing) Absolutely.

He's right, Billy. I've got a lot of ideas.

Just trust me, it will not be boring.

I guess I'm out-voted anyways, so...

Let's just give it a try.

Yeah-- Fine, fine, let's do it.

(guitar)

♪ The first noel, the angels did say. ♪

♪ Was to certain poor shepherds in fields-- ♪

Okay, okay-- Good, good, good.

Don't rush it, listen to the words, right?

It's not just the tune, think about what you're singing.

Yep, okay.

And, uh, Carlo, hold that note.

"Noel", right?

To match Billy there--

Okay, yeah.

Drag that out-- Good, good, good.

And, um... Billy, maybe try a few runs--

Yeah, sure.

Okay, and let's go up a tone and try it in b--

Yeah, yeah.

(guitar)

♪ The first noel, the angels did say. ♪

♪ Was to certain poor shepherds in fields as they lay. ♪

♪ In fields where they lay keeping their sheep, ♪

♪ on a cold winter's night that was so deep. ♪

♪ Noel, noel, whoa, noel, noel. ♪

♪ Born is the King of Israel. ♪

♪ Yeah...

Okay, good, good, good--

Uh, Carlo,

It sounds good-- Let me hear you.

Yeah?

Yes. Absolutely.

Trust it.

Billy, sounding good too, but maybe we'll just

pull back a little bit. Right? It's a duet.

Oh, yeah, right. Yep.

So we'll sing it together, guys.

It's good guys.

Sounding good, it's getting there.

Ms. Deason?

Hi.

I'm Amy's mother.

She told me this morning about the singing contest.

Oh, she didn't tell you before?

No, because she knew what I would say.

I wish you'd asked my permission before casting her.

I don't want her competing.

But, Amy has such a gorgeous voice

and she's so excited about the contest--

I know all that.

But, Amy can't handle the stress.

Things build up inside her.

She-- She can't sleep or eat

and finally she's a nervous wreck.

With all due respect, Mrs. Barnes,

I think you're underestimating your daughter.

I think Amy can handle more than you think she can.

And what better way to prepare for life than

to take on things that challenge and scare us?

With all due respect to you, Ms. Deason,

my husband and I have gone to great lengths

to teach our daughter the true values of Christmas--

giving, love, togetherness--

We've done missions in Mexico just to get away

from the very commercialism

and consumerism Christmas has become.

Now you want to put her on a television show,

sponsored by the very consumerism we loathe,

so she can sing like some kind of trick animal?!

Oh--

I don't think so.

Your job is to teach, Ms. Deason.

I'll do the parenting.

I would never, ever allow your daughter

to be treated like some sort of trick animal.

I mean, I really--

I truly believe this has been great for Amy.

Ever since she's been singing, she has come alive in class.

She participates, she raises her hand, she's involved--

She's really starting to come out of her shell.

I genuinely think this is good for her.

Would you please reconsider?

If I can see that it's too much for her, I'm pulling her out.

Agreed.

Thank you.

Thank you so much.

♪

Wow. Who hates Christmas that much?

I don't think it even has anything to do with Christmas.

I think she is a mother so afraid of her child

getting hurt that she'll do anything to protect her.

Which just ends up hurting the child more in the long run.

Obviously I can't tell her that.

Yeah, no. Obviously.

What's that strange little inflection in your voice?

Nothing.

Uh... I'm a person who makes my living using my ears,

I know a strange inflection when I hear one.

It's just kind of funny listening to you talk

about somebody else sabotaging.

What's that supposed to mean?

(laughing) Nothing.

What do you think I'm sabotaging?

Come on, Diana, you've been talking

about how you haven't had a personal life A.D.

A.D.?

After Dave?

Oh, come on...

I don't have time for--

--time for that.

I know. You know how I know?

Because you've been saying the same thing

for the last four years. You just said at lunch

how you're going to spend another Christmas alone.

Come on, Christmas is just a day.

Yeah... No, it's not.

And you know it's not.

It's meant to be spent with the people you care about,

who care about you.

Come on, girl. Get off your butt! Go find somebody.

Ugh, I just hate the bar scene and I can't even imagine

going to one of those ridiculous singles clubs.

It's just not my thing.

Wow. You are so far behind the time.

Let me bring you up to speed.

We have this nifty little tool now called the internet.

Where you can go on it

and there are tons of sites where you can meet men.

I just don't think-- I don't know...I can't do that.

Why? You just look at it like a screening process, you know?

You find somebody, have a drink.

Go for dinner.

If there's no spark who cares?

You just start over.

Maybe. It would be nice to meet someone.

Yes!

Right now, I've gotta concentrate

on winning this contest.

Yeah.

Hey, did you hear this 'Estelle Barlow' is one of the judges?

Yeah. She's on the board of governors.

You knew that? Right?

I just found out.

This is starting to feel less like a Christmas concert

and more like a job interview.

This is crazy, I can't that you're gonna

lose your job if you lose the contest.

I can...more and more everyday.

Well you know what?

You've got to win.

Working on it.

See you tomorrow.

Bye.

Hi, Liz!

Not now! I have a major tweet to send.

What's up?

I just heard Ms. Deason say she may lose her job

if we don't win this contest.

That doesn't seem fair.

Well, what if Mr. Stoddard loses?

He'd be out of a job.

There--

Lucky for Ms. Deason she's always been nice to me, huh?

Hey.

Hey.

Liz just tweeted whatever teacher wins the contest

gets to keep their job.

Oh, dude, please don't tell me you subscribed

to Liz Strade's twitter account.

Are you really interested every time she gets

a triple shot, six pump, soy-vanilla latte?

No. But I want to find out what the competition is up to.

Well, good for you. It's about time.

Thought you forgot this is a contest.

No.

So, we have to win or Mr. Stoddard gets axed, huh?

That's what it sounds like.

There's gotta be ways we can get an advantage.

♪

Great.

♪

Goodmorning.

Hey.

Hey.

Why are you so happy on a cold Monday morning?

I took your advice and signed up

for an online dating site and they sent me a match.

Are you serious? That is so exciting!

What's his name?

They don't give out names/addresses.

A security thing, so you go out with them,

then decide if you wanna give your number,

but judging from the answers on his personality quiz...

Yeah...?

He seems perfect!

Oh, wow!

So when do you get to meet him?

Uh the day after tomorrow we're having dinner.

I want to hear all the details. I'm serious!

Don't leave anything out.

Okay, I will. I promise.

But keep it down!

I don't want the whole school knowing.

Don't worry. I won't say anything. I promise.

I've got a great feeling about this.

Really?

Yeah.

It's going to be good. It's going to be fine...

Sorry. I'm just thinking out loud.

Hi, I think your number 29...

What are you doing here?

I have a horrible feeling, the same thing you are.

There must be some kind of mistake.

Yeah, I'm...

I'm sure there is, but I am 29-82.

Yeah.

Wow.

Um...

Well, I guess there's no reason to stay.

No, wait, wait, wait, I mean...

Since you're here already and...

you obviously spent a lot of time getting ready.

Not a lot.

No, you look great.

Thank you.

You look beautiful, actually.

Oh...

Thanks again.

Did you wanna sit down, have a glass of wine?

We can figure out how this happened?

Yeah. (laughing)

Oh, thank you.

So, why did you say your favorite music was classical?

Uh, because it is.

What I teach in class doesn't necessarily reflect

what I listen to at home.

Like Brahms?

Yeah, yeah. Absolutely.

I can barely get through his horn trio without crying.

I played the piano part in a recital once,

it was one of the most incredible moments of my life.

Do you, uh?

Yeah.

So, do you have classical training?

Me? Oh no, no.

I'm more of a pop kind of guy when it comes to performing.

Oh, you don't like pop.

I forgot.

That's not true!

No, no. It's enjoyable.

But it's not important.

Well, important like Beethoven or Brahms?

No. I don't think it is.

So, what is your definition of important?

Will people a hundred years from today be performing it?

But do we live a hundred years from today, though?

You know? I...

Popular music is important to people who live today.

That's fine, I just wanna show people there's more

available than what they hear on the top 100's.

I mean, there are over 300 years of some of the most incredible

sounds man has ever created just waiting for them.

Sure, but you can't force people to like classical music

by putting down what they like.

I'm not putting it down.

Mmm.

You know what?

Uh, this isn't going to work. What do I owe you for the wine?

Don't be silly.

No, I insist.

No, really I invited you. I'll pay for the night.

Bye.

Well, thank you for the short but lovely night.

Enjoy your dinner.

She thinks my music is simplistic

and my class is a bunch of imbeciles.

She said that?

Yeah.

She said that?

Well...some reading between the lines here,

but basically...

That's tough.

On the lighter side, at least you know

the next date's gonna go better.

No, there's not gonna be a next date.

What are you talking about?

Gotta get back on the saddle when thrown-off.

That's assuming one wants to ride again.

I'm giving up. I'm done.

You can't do that.

Why not?

So, I'm alone. Big deal? It's easier that way.

Easier?

Yeah.

Who said anything about life being easy?

Life is complicated.

Uh, Gary...

That make's it interesting.

No, listen to me.

Listen to me.

You can't just settle, dude.

You know what's settled?

What?

The sludge.

The sludge at the bottom that nobody wants.

You've gotta figure out what you want in life,

and you've gotta fight for it.

Give it another chance!

Oh, god.

Give me the print out with your answers on it.

Why?

I have an idea.

I have an idea. Hear me out.

Okay, we are going write in the opposite answers

of what you put in the first time.

Uh... where is it?

Favourite food. What's your favourite food?

Italian.

Italian... All right, Italian.

Now, it's Thai.

(sigh) Why?

Why you bothering? What are we doing?

Because this way we're guaranteed to find someone

completely opposite of what you got tonight.

That's what you want, isn't it?

Yeah.

Yeah, that's exactly what I want.

Okay, so Thai it is.

Yeah, but you can't just give up.

I'm no good at it, okay? Romance just isn't my game.

(laughing)

Well, now that's interesting.

What?

How you just described romance.

Please, no amateur psychoanalysis.

Okay.

Because it meant nothing.

Okay.

It's just a figure of speech.

Okay.

Would you please stop saying 'okay' like that?

Let me ask you a question. Are you competitive?

Yeah. I'm competitive.

Okay.

And every time you get involved in a game,

what do you want to do?

I want to beat my opponent.

Diana, in romance, when you wind up in first place

you don't win.

You only win when you both win.

♪

♪

That's great, guys.

♪

Whoa.

Another one.

Fantastic.

Morning, Liz.

Seriously?

♪

What?

These are terrible.

It's not your fault.

It's certainly not my fault.

Amy?

They're terrific.

Really. But, um...

she wants to try something and uh...

I wanted to try something.

What?

This will make your eyes pop, okay? Come here.

Come here!

Stay still.

They're using glamour shots.

It isn't fair!

They know we can't compete!

Ugh guys, get this down!

You! You two!

Guys, get this down.

This looks terrible.

Carlo, I'm going to have to think of something.

Something good.

(piano)

♪ Angels we have heard on high... ♪

♪ Sweetly singing ore the plains... ♪

♪ And the mountains in reply... ♪

♪ Echoing their joyous strains... ♪

♪

Oh.

Thanks.

Hi. Oh, beautiful.

(guitar)

♪ The first noel the angels did say... ♪

♪ Was to certain for shepherds in fields as they lay... ♪

Carlo, louder!

♪ In fields where they lay keeping their sheep... ♪

Yeah.

Christmas has always been

a source of inspiration for composers.

So, just... over the next week,

while you're on holiday, listen out for the music

you're hearing.

So, like 'Jingle Bell Rock'?

(laughing)

Well, I was thinking a little bit more along the lines

of the music you might hear at you know, church.

(drums playing quietly)

Uh, church bulletins are usually really good

about listing the names of composers.

But if you... you can't...

(drums playing loudly)

If you can't hear it, uh...

Hear it... can't hear myself!

Haha, that's it.

You know what? You want loud?

I'm going to give you loud.

Girls, I have a very special Christmas treat for you.

Now, Tchaikovsky wrote this to commemorate the defeat

of Napoleon when he invaded Russia.

It juxtaposes two melodies--

'God Save The Czar' and 'Lemurs cest yez'.

And it's always, always meant to be played really loudly!

♪

Haha!

♪

Feel that?

Come up here! Come up here, girls! Come up!

Come up here! Everybody, everybody!

He used actual cannons while recording this.

♪

What is going on in here?

♪

You, you, in my office... now!

Call me old fashioned, but I expect my teachers

to be a little bit more mature than their students.

He started it.

Not what I want to hear, Diana.

I don't think either of us is in the right mind today.

And I'm as much to blame as Diana is here.

It's the contest.

Yeah.

Yeah, it is. You know?

It's supposed to be a celebration of Christmas.

It's bringing out the worst in everybody, myself included.

Look, I'm sorry for the way things have turned out

and I'll try to rein my team in.

Me too.

Well, it's a little late for that.

The whole school's in an uproar.

For the record,

I never encouraged them to act that way.

Nor did I.

And I promise to stop with the rhythm section too, I'm...

You know what? It's fine.

At least you're getting your kids interested in music.

I mean maybe my approach is a little dry.

No, don't be silly.

You're teaching facts.

It's a school, that's what we're supposed to be doing.

Do what you can and let's just be thankful

this whole thing will be over in two days.

♪

Yeah.

♪

I'm meeting a friend.

♪

♪

Excuse me.

Hi, I'm...

What are you doing here?

I'm meeting somebody.

Me.

Yeah, you're about to meet me wearing a blue dress.

You're supposed to be meeting me.

Oh my...

26-19?

Yes.

Do you really hate me this much?

Whoa...

Excuse me? Do you think I did this on purpose?

How else?

No, let me tell you something.

I did everything to have it not be you. Okay?

You know the questionnaire?

I changed my answers to the exact opposite to...

So did I...

Which is why the computer matched us up again.

It makes perfect sense.

Wow.

Yeah.

I'm starving.

Do you want to just eat? Should we have a meal?

We both know that the computer messed up twice,

which is amazing to me.

But, uh... no pressure-

A meal between colleagues.

As long as I can pay half--

You don't have to...

No, please. I know what teachers make.

I figure if I make the most of the time I'm living now,

I'll be ready for whatever the future brings.

Have you always been this practical?

Well... my father lived in the future,

which kind of made the present a little difficult.

Hard to feed a family out of a tip jar, right?

Tip jar?

I thought your father was an undertaker?

Mm...my stepfather.

My biological dad pretty much lived on the road,

playing honky-tonks and bars.

Yeah, he was the original 'piano man',

except he played the trumpet.

That's where you get your love of music.

Yeah.

Were you close?

Um, he passed when I was 17.

I didn't really know him. I mean, no, I knew him.

He was charming and funny and everything,

but... more legend than father.

That must have been hard.

Yeah... you know, I tried hating him for years.

(chuckling)

I did, but I just... I couldn't.

You know?

I...every time I missed him I could just put on his

old records and he was right there with me.

♪

Hank Williams, Dean Martin, Elvis...

Yeah.

That music kind of kept us together.

That's beautiful.

Yeah, I played his 'Elvis: Live In Memphis' album so many

times it had so many scratches I actually had to throw it out.

(laughing)

There is such a thing as downloading, you know?

No...

There's something about vinyl.

I'm telling you...

It's funny because, you know, my dad--

It was always his dream to perform live on television.

He never did.

And now here I am with this contest, on TV,

the only thing I might get is a chance to keep my job.

God... it's kind of pathetic, isn't it?

Pathetic? Huh, you want pathetic?

I married my high school sweetheart.

We were in love...

everything was going right until, of course, it wasn't.

It was Christmas Eve and we were having a Christmas party.

He would later say he was innocently getting eggnog

from the spare fridge in the basement,

but I went down there and there he was, my husband,

kissing another woman.

♪

I replayed that moment over and over and over again.

Where did we go wrong?

You know? Was there something I could have done?

To this day, I haven't cleaned out that refrigerator.

(laughing) Now, that's pathetic.

No... no it's not.

It's not.

I'm sorry.

I...

Don't be.

It wasn't meant to be.

Well, I guess we just have to make the most

of the time we're in.

(phone ringing)

Dude, you're kidding?

Yeah, yeah, yeah I'll deal with it.

Thanks buddy, I owe you one.

♪

♪

(sigh)

(sigh)

♪

♪

Hey! Oh!

You're not gonna believe this.

Ms. Deason and Mr. Stoddard are an item.

(laughing) You're right, I don't believe it.

Some guy posted a tweet about it about it last night.

Apparently they were staring lovingly

into each other's eyes for hours.

You're kidding, right?

Yeah, that's what I said.

But he said they were there for hours.

This is a problem.

What happens when one of them gets fired?

Yeah... wow that's harsh.

I don't want her to get fired.

But if she keeps her job and he doesn't, he'll dump her.

Why?

Well, because she's undermining her team.

He's going to stop wanting to win it.

How do you know?

Amy... because I know men.

Oh, come on, man. Adults aren't like that.

Are you serious?

Carlo, read your history.

Caesar and Cleopatra? Ring any bells?

Well, I guess there's nothing we can do about it.

It's just not fair.

I mean, for Ms. Deason to find someone at her age

and then lose him? Or lose her job?

You think we should take a dive?

Deliberately lose?

Uh, no. Um, we should just try our best

and hope that everything works out.

He's gonna stop wanting to win. We have to fight back.

Oh Billy, Carlo, studio just called to remind us

of the technical rehearsal on the 23rd.

4:30, right?

Yes.

Yeah.

Billy, do not be late.

Yeah, I'm on it.

No, I'm serious. No-shows are disqualified.

No. Mr. Stoddard, I've got it on my calendar. We're good.

Okay.

See ya.

See ya.

Oh!

Hi, Ms. Deason.

Hi.

Hey, you.

Hey.

How are you?

I just wanted to come by and say thank you for last night.

Oh, yeah, great!

No, thank you! It was fun.

Yeah.

So, are your guys ready?

Um, yeah, I think so.

You know (laughs)...

How about your girls?

Well, if you ask them, they'd probably say no. But...

They're ready.

Listen, Diana--

Can I...

(laughing)

Sorry.

No, no, no...go.

You go first. Please.

Um, I just... well I just wanted to say

no matter what happens, it's just a job.

You know? And I... I just wanted you to know that.

♪

And I'd really like to see you again.

That's great.

I was about to say the exact same thing.

Really?

Yeah, I'm serious.

I...

I have this like overwhelming desire to sit

and listen to old records with you.

You're asking me over to listen to old records?

(laughing) I know.

It sounds incredibly high school, but hey,

I don't have an mp3 player, okay?

But...

I think it would be fun.

Definitely.

After the contest I'd definitely take you up on that.

Great.

Good luck.

Yeah. Hey, you too.

You too.

♪

Hi.

Oh, hello.

Can I sit here?

Um... yeah, sure.

No one's using it.

I knew I'd find you here.

I hate the cafeteria.

Drop a bunch of boys into an all-girl school;

you're bound to get a food fight or two.

(laughing)

I wanted a chance to talk to you, I...

I wanna wish you good luck in the contest.

Yeah, right.

No, really.

Uh, I've overheard you rehearsing a few times

and you were really good.

Thanks!

Of course, I think we're really good too.

But I guess that's up to the judges to decide.

(sigh)

I...

I just wish this was over.

Oh, so do I!

I... I just thought we were going to rehearse,

go out and sing...

Who thought it'd get this involved? Half the school is

cheering me on, and the other half wants me to drop dead.

Billy loves it. It's like one of his sports to him.

He's gonna win no matter what.

Liz is exactly the same.

She can't think about anything else.

You know... this is usually my favourite time of the year,

but it doesn't even feel like Christmas to me.

I mean, I thought this contest was about

who could sing the best Christmas carol.

How did this end up becoming so mean?

I've been wanting to drop out...

but it would prove my mother right.

About what?

She thinks I can't handle the stress.

I'm going to show her she's wrong.

I think she is wrong.

Uh, four more days!

Four more days.

♪

♪

Careful!

You're gonna get your shoes wet.

They're not going to be seen on camera.

It doesn't matter.

If they feel uncomfortable then you'll feel uncomfortable

and that will show up on camera.

♪

See you at the rehearsal, girls.

We can't wait any longer.

They're gonna be here any minute.

But you did tell them the rehearsal started at 4:30?

Yes, of course.

They said they were coming right after their rehearsal.

Something must have happened.

(ringing) Hey, this is Liz, can't come to the phone

but dying to hear what you have to say. (BEEP)

Liz, where are you?

We're here at the studio; we're waiting for you.

Please, please call me back as soon as you get this.

♪

Come on! Give me at least one bar.

Why didn't you check the gas before we left?

My father always takes care of it, okay?

I don't even think about it.

Obviously.

Oh, don't start.

This has never happened before.

They're going to kick us out of the contest!

You know what, Amy? It's not our fault, okay?

No. It's not our fault; running out of gas is your fault.

Great idea, let's fight because that's

what we need right now.

We need to hitch a ride.

Hitch hiking's dangerous.

We're not asking someone to take us to Hollywood,

just the television station.

(sigh)

Shut it down.

Shut it down.

Look, it's twelve passed, I've gotta disqualify your team.

I'm sure they'll be here any minute.

(ring ring)

Liz, where are you?

We ran out of gas, couldn't get my cell to work,

this nice lady picked us up.

Should be there in about twenty minutes.

They ran outta gas, they'll be here in twenty.

Yeah, but my crew's on overtime already.

I, I've gotta say no.

(sigh)

We're disqualified.

What?!

They can't do that!

Yes, they can.

Look, I'll meet you outside the station

and we'll pick up your car with some gas, okay?

Look, I'm sorry, but we did publish the rules.

No, I know it's not your fault, it's just...

it's rotten luck.

Thanks anyway.

♪

(drumming)

Hey.

Hey.

So, how does it feel to be a winner?

There are still teams to beat.

Yeah, we're the best and you know it.

Especially after I took care of the competition.

No need to thank me, just admire my genius.

Oh, yeah? What are you talking about?

Well, you know how they used sexy posters?

I used my own methods.

What did you do to their car?

It's fine, I just bought one of those cell blockers from one of

the computer geeks and taped it to the inside of their bumper.

Oh, yeah...

And I drained most of their gas out. (drum roll)

Billy, you're an idiot, man!

What?

They could have gotten into an accident!

But they didn't, they're fine.

No, look, you have to tell Mr. Stoddard.

Are you kidding?

No, I don't win by cheating.

You gonna go crying to Mr. Stoddard

and tell him like baby?

No, you are.

Make me.

Alright.

Oh, what?

You think I can't because I'm in this chair?

Look, I'll tell you what, you win and I keep quiet,

I win and you tell Mr. Stoddard.

Come on, Carlo.

I'm the captain of the wrestling team.

Yeah, so what?

I move more weight with my arms everyday

than you do in a month.

What? Are you scared?

Come on, you little chicken. Put up or shut up.

Or are you scared of a kid in a wheelchair?

♪

Count of three.

One...two...three.

♪

♪

Call the station.

The number is already in my phone.

Hello?

Yeah, hi, can I speak to whoever's in charge

of the Christmas Carol Contest?

What are you doing here?

Got a call from Estelle Barlow

telling me to come as soon as possible.

Yeah, same.

Ms. Deason, Mr. Stoddard, walk with me.

Is there some sort of problem?

Oh, yes.

As a matter of fact there's a large one.

I had a phone call from one of your boys,

Mr. Stoddard, confessing that he had drained the gasoline

from the girl's car and that's why they missed rehearsal.

I should have known.

Hm...Maybe you did.

Excuse me?

Oh no, no, no, no, no, no please.

I have a more pressing problem.

This telecast starts in a few hours.

Now, how am I to deal with this revelation?

Well I totally understand if you disqualify my team.

Ah, but I understand that it was just one boy

who was responsible.

I have a pretty good idea of which one.

It's not fair to punish the other boy as well.

Let me think about this for a minute.

Ooo, oo, oo, I have an idea.

I am judging this contest on a point system

of my own devising.

Now, I am counting phone in responses, texting response,

and of course my own assessment of song choice,

uniqueness of arrangement, performance, and appearance.

It was a very nasty trick for your boys to play on the girls

and so I'm going to allow the girls to perform.

And I'm going to give the boys, your team,

a five-point disadvantage going into the contest.

Does that strike you as fair?

Absolutely.

Can you get the girls here in an hour?

Yes! Yes!

Yes!

Good luck, both of you.

Thank you.

Thank you so much.

Uh, hey, hey I didn't know anything about that, okay?

I don't...

I don't have time to talk about this right now.

(knock knock)

What are you doing?

Ms. Deason just called, they're gonna let us compete after all!

Amy, no.

Mom, I'm going to do this.

I have to.

You cried yourself to sleep last night over this stupid contest,

I told you it was a mistake,

and now you're gonna set yourself up to fail again.

I'm not going to fail.

And last night was different.

Amy, no. You're not going.

Yes, I am.

Mom, I know you only want what's best for me,

but what I want... what I want is to do this.

I know I can, I just need the chance.

Honey...

This is breaking my heart.

I'm just trying to keep you from getting hurt.

But the only way to never get hurt is to never do anything.

I don't want a life like that.

I don't want some contest deciding

whether you're a winner or not.

That's not Christmas.

But, don't you see?

I'm not doing this contest to win, but to give.

To give to myself and Ms. Deason,

and if that's not the meaning of Christmas

then I don't know what is.

There's one more thing.

Can I have an early Christmas present?

Could you be in the studio audience when I sing tonight?

♪

Mom?

Let me get dressed.

Thanks! (laughing)

(humming)

♪

You guys look great.

Now all you've got to do is sound as good as you look.

Just...

Liz, remember.. just remember the beat.

Okay?

Stay on the beat.

And Amy, you've got a gorgeous voice.

Yeah, she does.

So, make sure the audience hears it, all right?

Don't let Ethel Merman here drown you out.

(laughing)

She'll be great.

Where are you gonna be sitting?

Oh, oh they stuck me beside Mr. Stoddard,

but that's all right. It's just for an hour so...

Listen, don't look for me.

Just focus on your song, you're gonna be great.

All right, that's time.

Could all the stage moms, all the coaches

please find their seats in the audience?

Thank you.

Good luck!

Look at me.

Forget everybody else, okay? They don't matter.

You're not in competition with them;

you're competing against yourselves.

That's it.

You know the material, you've got the technique,

you've got everything you need, okay?

Just get out there at just hit your personal best.

All right? You can do it.

You guys are great.

Mr. Stoddard, just wannna say how sorry I am for--

Yeah. It's fine, we'll talk about it after.

It was a stupid thing to do, I feel terrible.

Agreed, it was, but just concentrate on the song.

We'll talk about it after, okay?

(whispering) You guys are gonna be great. Trust it.

All right, last call.

If you're not performing, you do not belong back stage.

Please, find your seats.

Okay?

(ring ring)

Hello?

It's Amy.

We're not supposed to be talking,

the contest is about to start.

I had something to tell you, just remembered.

The day we were late for rehearsal we were walking to

Liz's car and Mr. Stoddard asked if we needed a ride.

He did?

If he knew our car was gonna run out of gas

he wouldn't have offered us a ride.

You're right.

All right, now is the time

to turn off all electronic devices and cell phones.

I've been totally wrong about everything.

I said, now is the time to give your cell phones a rest.

Oh, I've gotta go.

Thank you.

Ken, I need to talk to you.

Great timing.

(drum roll and applause)

Ladies and gentlemen, welcome

to the fifth annual Christmas Carol Sing-off.

You're in for night of incredible music

and Christmas cheer, but first, a round of applause

for the owner of this station and our very special

judge tonight, Ms. Estelle Barlow!

(applause)

(applause)

And now, please give it up for the dynamic duo

from Zubignu Braschinski High.

(applause)

Are you crazy?

Look, they're in love;

it's this contest that's driving them apart.

Yeah, but all contests do that.

But maybe this one doesn't have to.

Okay, I was thinking...

(whispering)

I can't! It has to wait.

Amy, that's a great idea!

Yeah.

All right, I'll send a note to the judge.

And uh... here, turn around.

Let's hope she lets us do it.

Incredible! Congratulations!

Just fantastic.

Well, we were supposed to have two more teams

competing tonight; instead we have one special surprise.

Estelle?

(applause)

Until a few months ago, Kasdan and Cresswell

were two different schools with two very different ideas

of how to teach music.

When they merged last summer,

they kept both music programs.

And so we agreed to allow two separate vocal duos

to compete tonight.

But I learned just before the program that the teams want

to merge just as their schools merged

and so our final contestant is the double duo

of Kasdan-Cresswell!

(applause)

♪

(singing) ♪ The first noel the angels did say... ♪

♪ Was to certain for shepherds in fields as they lay... ♪

♪ In fields where they lay keeping their sheep... ♪

♪ On a cold winter's night that was so deep... ♪

♪ Angels we have heard on high... ♪

♪ Sweetly singing ore the plains... ♪

♪ And the mountains in reply... ♪

♪ Noel, noel

♪ Echoing their joyous strains... ♪

♪

♪ Noel, noel, noel, noel... ♪

♪ Born is the king of Israel... ♪

♪ Noel, noel, noel, noel... ♪

♪ Born is the King of Israel... ♪

♪ Noel...

♪

(singing and repeating, while trumpet joins in)

♪ Born is the King of Israel... ♪

♪ Noel, noel, noel, noel... ♪

♪ Born is the king of Israel...♪

♪ Born is the king of Israel... ♪

(generous applause)

Well, the votes appear to be flooding in

with Kasdan-Cresswell taking an early and commanding lead.

I've gotta say, it's neck and neck

between the boys and the girls duos.

It looks like it's going to be a photo finish.

I don't know how we are going to be able to predict the...

Um... I think the computer crashed.

I don't think that it could handle the volume of calls.

Oh, for heaven's sakes!

Forget all those computer doodles.

Get that silly thing out!

I know who the winner is...

Yes.

All right, here we go.

And the winner is...

Kasdan-Cresswell!

(wild applause)

♪

Woo!

Woohoo!

(applause continues)

♪

Diana, Ken... congratulations.

Oh, you must be so proud!

I was just talking to Estelle, who was obviously very

impressed with what she saw tonight,

and we both agreed that there's just..

it's just a tragedy when any excellent teacher

is made redundant.

Well, can't argue that.

(laughing)

Now, you know that she is a very close friend of many

of the school's donors and she knows...

Well how did she put it?

She knows just what buttons to press

and where all the skeletons are hidden,

I have a feeling they will be able to come up with funding

for at least one more year of the program.

Oh, that's amazing.

Isn't that great?

That's fantastic!

You were so wonderful tonight.

Oh, thank you, yeah.

A Merry, Merry Christmas to you both.

Merry Christmas.

Thank you.

Merry Christmas to you.

(sigh)

That's great!

Wow.

Ms. Deason!

Um--

Oh, thank you.

Yup.

Merry Christmas.

What?

It's not much.

Are you kidding me?

It's not much?

Elvis Live In Memphis!

Wow!

Um... This is incredible.

Where did you even find this?

Well, contrary to what our students think,

the internet is good for things other than downloading music.

(laughing)

Ebay.

Wow.

Diana, I didn't...

I didn't get you anything at all.

Oh, don't be silly.

This has been the most amazing Christmas.

Really.

I just wanted to say...

your father would have been really proud of you tonight.

You played beautifully and from the heart.

Thank you.

Yeah.

Hey, uh... have you got any plans for Christmas?

As a matter of fact I do.

Oh, really? What are they?

I am going to live every single moment.

♪