For Bucket Bands, Rhythm Sticks, and Other Festive Instruments This ethereal truly ancient carol – "O Come, O Come, Emmanuel" – is not a song that is usually picked out for bucket band or other classroom instruments, but as we worked with rhythm patterns, we found that there were some great combinations to be found. Our ensemble, as written, includes a single bucket band part, rhythm sticks, sand blocks, rainstick. Virtually all parts are optional, especially if you use the full recording. Ask your players to play with seriousness, as this is a work that should be taken earnestly. Yes, it has an exuberant feel, but it should be played musically making effects more dramatic.