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[Christmas] Songs That Sound Cool on Piano! A Pick of Classics and All-Time Favorites

[Christmas] Songs That Sound Cool on Piano! A Pick of Classics and All-Time Favorites
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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?

[Christmas] It’s cool if you can play these on piano! A selection of famous and classic tunes (1–10)

Merry XmasBoA

[Sheet Music] “Meri Kuri / BoA” Piano Arrangement
Merry XmasBoA

This is BoA’s signature Christmas song, with a melody that gently wraps around a winter night and seeps into the heart.

It paints a scene of lovers pledging eternal love amid falling snow, and its lyrics, exquisitely weaving together wistfulness and hope, are a major part of its charm.

The arrangement—featuring piano, bells, and strings—builds dramatically toward the chorus, creating an atmosphere perfect for a calm winter evening.

It was used in December 2004 as the CM song for Toshiba’s “W21T,” and reached No.

5 on the Oricon chart.

A piano cover will further highlight the warmth of the original.

Recommended for those who want to perform it as a sing-and-play piece at recitals or showcase it as a special number during the Christmas season.

HappinessAI

Happiness / Eito × AI [Coca-Cola Commercial] - Piano Cover -
HappinessAI

A classic that became an essential song for the Christmas season in Japan, used as Coca-Cola’s Christmas campaign song from 2011 to 2015.

Born from the desire to bring courage and energy to people in Japan after the Great East Japan Earthquake, this piece carries a message that smiles spread happiness to those around us.

When played on the piano, a different kind of delicacy and warmth stands out compared to AI’s soulful vocals, allowing you to feel a quiet strength within a gentle atmosphere.

It’s sure to make the time you spend with your loved ones at Christmas even more special.

Heroineback number

[With Sheet Music] Heroine / back number (Piano Solo Intermediate–Advanced) [Piano Arrangement Sheet Music]
Heroineback number

This work, which depicts the bittersweet emotions of winter love, was featured in JR East’s “JR SKISKI” commercial in January 2015.

It delicately portrays the frustration of a protagonist with unrequited feelings, unable to take that first step toward the one they love.

The gentle ballad style pairs perfectly with the piano’s tone, allowing the protagonist’s emotional fluctuations to resonate deeply.

Enjoy the subtle shifts in timbre and immerse yourself in the romantic atmosphere of winter.

Silent EveKarashima Midori

Under the beautiful illuminations... When I played Midori Karashima's Silent Eve, I was enveloped in warm applause.
Silent EveKarashima Midori

Released in November 1990 as the theme song for the TBS drama “Christmas Eve,” this million-selling track topped the Oricon chart for three consecutive weeks.

It delicately depicts the quiet tremors of the heart that arrive along with the falling snow.

The lyrics are striking in the way they portray the protagonist’s bittersweet attempt to quietly accept parting with a loved one on the special night of Christmas—conveying sorrow, yet also a certain dignified strength.

In the piano version, the subtle emotional shifts and the beauty of silence stand out even more, allowing you to enjoy a gently refined, adult sound.

Merry Christmas Mr LawrenceSakamoto Ryuichi

sakamoto MerryChristmasMrLawrence 5994i youtube
Merry Christmas Mr LawrenceSakamoto Ryuichi

Composed for the film Merry Christmas, Mr.

Lawrence, this piece is characterized by its simple, beautiful melody.

Its recurring motif is easy to remember, making it well-known as a work that even beginner pianists can tackle.

Created in 1983, it marked an important turning point in Ryuichi Sakamoto’s musical career.

From the prelude that evokes a quiet winter night blanketed in snow to a melody where feelings like sorrow and resignation seem to intertwine, it is filled with a charm that resonates deeply with listeners.

Not limited to the Christmas season, why not try performing it as a piece that can color special moments spent with someone important?

Someday Merry ChristmasB’z

Someday's Merry Christmas - Piano - B’z
Someday Merry ChristmasB'z

A signature ballad by B’z, one of Japan’s premier rock duos, this heartwarming song is perfect for a Christmas night.

Released in December 1992, it was featured in films and commercials and captured the hearts of many.

Its melody, a delicate balance of poignancy and warmth, becomes even more expressive on the piano.

If you play it with thoughts of someone special, it’s sure to become a cherished Christmas memory.

Highly recommended for those who want to be wrapped in a romantic atmosphere.

All I Want For Christmas Is YouMariah Carey

All I Want For Christmas Is You – Mariah Carey | Piano Cover + Sheet Music
All I Want For Christmas Is YouMariah Carey

Mariah Carey’s song, which regains worldwide popularity every Christmas season, was released in 1994.

Blending a pop, up-tempo feel with Carey’s phenomenal vocal prowess, it is truly a masterpiece worthy of being called a Christmas classic.

The lyrics, filled with the festive spirit of the season and the longing for a loved one, continue to resonate with many.

Played on the piano, it can create an even more chic and mature atmosphere.

It’s also great for performing at Christmas parties or enjoying a duet with someone special.