[Christmas] Songs That Sound Cool on Piano! A Pick of Classics and All-Time Favorites
When it comes to Christmas songs, there are works across a variety of genres and styles—classical, Western pop, J-pop, film music, and more.
With so many sheet music publications available, many of you have probably played some of them on the piano.
In this article, we’ve picked out songs—mainly from Japanese and Western music—that sound incredibly cool when played on the piano, even among the many Christmas classics.
The original versions are, of course, wonderful, but piano arrangements give them an even more chic atmosphere.
Why not enjoy Christmas with the sound of the piano—listening side by side with the originals or actually trying to play them yourself?
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[Christmas] It’s cool if you can play these on piano! A selection of famous and classic tunes (1–10)
Last ChristmasWham!
A hit song by Wham! released in 1984.
Written and composed by George Michael, this track is characterized by poignant lyrics centered on heartbreak.
The protagonist, betrayed by the lover to whom he gave his heart the previous Christmas, sings of finding hope in new love—a theme that resonated with many.
Its lively melody, woven from synthesizer tones and jingle bells, fully evokes the Christmas spirit.
When played on piano, it takes on a more sophisticated feel, making it a great choice for adults as well.
It’s the perfect song for those who’ve experienced heartbreak or want to savor a touch of bittersweetness at Christmas.
Christmas songback number
A signature song by back number, a leading band in Japan’s pop-rock scene that has become indispensable during the Christmas season.
Featuring crystal-clear vocals and a melody that touches the heart, this track was released in December 2015 and drew attention as the theme song for a Fuji TV Monday 9 p.m.
drama.
The lyrics, which convey the aching feelings of thinking about a loved one and deep affection for that person, have resonated with many.
Played with the gentle tones of a piano, it takes on an even more moving atmosphere.
Why not perform it as a song to add a special touch to the time you spend with someone important on Christmas night?
Snow BlossomNakajima Mika
A masterpiece that beautifully captures the stillness of winter.
With its striking piano melody, this song resonates deeply with listeners.
Released in 2003, it has been cherished by many as one of Mika Nakashima’s signature works.
The lyrics, in which the falling snow symbolizes the bond between two people, depict eternal love and transience with remarkable elegance.
It was also used in a Meiji Seika commercial and became a major hit.
Its melody, which kindles a warm light on cold winter nights, is perfect for Christmas spent with family and friends.
Sheet music is available for everyone from piano beginners to advanced players, so be sure to give it a try.
[Christmas] Cool if you can play them on piano! A selection of famous and classic pieces (11–20)
Christmas EveYamashita Tatsuro
A quintessential winter classic released in December 1983 by Tatsuro Yamashita, one of Japan’s leading singer-songwriters.
Centered on the theme of heartbreak, it poignantly portrays the feelings of a narrator waiting for “you” on Christmas Eve.
Its distinctive character lies in the exquisite balance of diverse elements—such as chord progressions inspired by Baroque music and an opening line derived from an unfinished song from his Sugar Babe days.
After being featured in a JR Tokai commercial in 1988, the song became a long-selling hit that gains traction every Christmas season, and it continues to be cherished as a staple of Japanese Christmas music.
Performed on piano, it takes on a deeper, more subdued atmosphere, making it especially recommended for adults.
My lover is Santa ClausMatsutōya Yumi
A classic winter song woven by Yumi Matsutoya.
On Christmas night, the bittersweet feelings of seeing one’s lover as Santa Claus seep into the heart.
The gentle sound of the piano seems to soften the chill of winter.
Included on the December 1980 album “SURF & SNOW,” this piece was also used as an insert song in the 1987 film “Take Me Out to Snowland,” leaving a lasting impression on many.
Highly recommended for those who want to make time with someone special feel extraordinary.
Why not enjoy it on Christmas night, accompanied by the piano’s tones?
Wonderful HolidayTakeuchi Mariya
Released in November 2001, this song was created as a tie-in for a Christmas commercial by KFC Japan.
Mariya Takeuchi herself has said that it’s a song she wouldn’t have written without the Kentucky offer, and it’s brimming with a Christmas atmosphere.
Beginning with imagery that evokes the arrival of winter, the lyrics express the joy of Christmas and the bonds of family, warming the hearts of listeners.
Even in a piano arrangement, it fully conveys a sense of happiness—truly a classic Christmas song.
Santa Tell MeAriana Grande
The Christmas song released in 2014 by popular American singer Ariana Grande has captured many hearts with its catchy melody and bittersweet lyrics.
Skillfully blending Christmas magic with the anxieties of romance, the song tells the story of a protagonist who, after experiencing heartbreak, confides in Santa Claus about hopes for a new love.
With gentle vocals and heartwarming words, it enhances the festive atmosphere while also expressing the cautious feelings that come with love.
When played on the piano, it can convey even more delicate emotions.
It’s a recommended track for those who want to savor the Christmas mood or who are struggling with matters of the heart.