[For people in their 90s] Recommended Christmas songs: from nostalgic school songs and hymns to timeless classics

Christmas at our houseWalter Kent

I’ll Be Home For Christmas – Christmas piano sheet music

Amid the turmoil of World War II, this song captures the feelings of a soldier far from home.

While it conjures warm scenes of snow, mistletoe, and gifts beneath the tree, it ends with the poignant line “if only in my dreams,” leaving a lasting ache.

Released in October 1943 with Walter Kent’s lyrical melody and Bing Crosby’s intimate vocals, it spent 11 weeks on the U.S.

charts and became a long-running hit.

Covered across generations by artists including Elvis Presley and Frank Sinatra, this classic, when played with the gentle tones of a piano, deepens our thoughts for family and loved ones living far away.

Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Star

[With Vocals] Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Star with Lyrics (Kirakira Boshi, Kirakira-boshi)

A nursery rhyme about the twinkling stars in the night sky that everyone hummed as a child.

Reconstructed by rutekia in August 2025 as a contemporary instrumental piece, this work uses electro-classical techniques to express the sparkle of stars in sound.

The original melody traces back to an 18th-century French chanson, with Mozart himself composing variations on it.

Delicate timbres of synthesizer and piano evoke the expanse of the night sky, making it perfect for quiet listening on Christmas night.

How about spending a moment gazing at the stars with older loved ones, reminiscing about memories of the beloved nursery rhyme?

Look up at the stars in the nightSakamoto Kyu

Miagete Goran Yoru No Hoshi Wo

This is a classic song in which Kyu Sakamoto’s gentle singing voice resonates with the heart.

It celebrates the beauty of the glittering stars in the night sky and carries a message that offers people hope and comfort.

Released in 1963, it won the Composer’s Award at the 5th Japan Record Awards.

It is also known as a musical number, with Kyu Sakamoto himself starring.

It’s recommended listening on Christmas night while gazing at the starry sky from your window.

Why not make a wish upon the stars and hum along with someone special?

Santa Claus is coming

Santa Claus is coming

This song gently heralds the arrival of Christmas.

Since Gene Autry released it in 1947, it has become a classic covered by many artists.

The lyrics, which depict Santa Claus coming to deliver presents to children, are so exciting to listen to.

Elvis Presley’s cover is especially famous and was included on his 1957 album “Elvis’ Christmas Album.” It was also used in the film “National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation,” enhancing the festive atmosphere.

Listening to it with older adults could spark joyful conversations as you reminisce about the past together.

Kantarō the North Wind Kid

Kantaro the North Wind Kid / Minna no Uta

This is a classic song that playfully depicts the chill of winter.

It features Kantaro, a north wind spirit, who humorously expresses the harshness of the season.

When it was first broadcast on NHK’s “Minna no Uta” in 1974, it was sung by Masakazu Sakai.

Since then, many artists, including Saburo Kitajima, have covered it, and it’s been loved across generations.

Yu Takahashi’s cover also drew attention.

It’s perfect for anyone who wants to stay upbeat despite the cold.

Listening to it around Christmas makes the seasonal mood even richer.

On a chilly day, how about warming up with a hot drink while enjoying this song?