[Christmas Songs] Carefully Selected Classic and Popular Pieces That Delight When Played on Piano

sleddingLeroy Anderson

Sleigh Ride Piano: A Christmas Classic

As Christmas approaches, we hear this song more and more in various places.

Composed by Leroy Anderson, it was selected by ASCAP (the American Society of Composers, Authors and Publishers) as the most popular Christmas song in 2009 and 2010.

The Christmas SongMel Tormé／Robert Wells

The Christmas Song (Chestnuts Roasting On An Open Fire). Arranged for solo piano, with music sheet.

A classic Christmas song.

It was co-written by Mel Tormé and Bob Wells in 1944.

The version sung by Nat King Cole is the most famous, but the song has been beloved by many artists, and Justin Bieber even covered it in 2011.

Its nostalgic atmosphere evokes the good old days and cherished memories.

You’ll find yourself wanting to pause, relax, and listen as you surrender to the gentle tones of the piano.

expand_lessRaise the rankingexpand_morelower

KEI

Report a problem

Carols of the bellsMykola Leontovych

Carol of the Bells (Christmas Piano Cover)

A piece composed in 1914 by Mykola Leontovych, a Ukrainian priest, based on the Ukrainian folk song “Shchedryk.” In 1936, lyrics were added by the Ukrainian composer Peter J.

Wilhousky.

It is structured around an ostinato—an eighth-note-based musical pattern that is repeated many times.

The arrangement begins quietly, gradually increases in the number of notes and volume, and finally returns to a quiet ending, so perform it while enjoying that progression.

expand_lessRaise the rankingexpand_morelower

HATSUMI

Report a problem

Santa Claus is comingOakley Haldeman

Here Comes Santa Claus – Piano Cover – PDF – MIDI

This song, Santa Claus Is Coming to Town, is probably one that many people would say, “I didn’t know the title, but I recognize the tune!” You hear the opening melody in all sorts of places, right? After that, it unfolds by shifting its mood—turning into an elegant, piano-like melody and then into a festive, Christmasy feel.

There are many different arrangements, but inspired by the Japanese title, I think it’s fun to make it into a medley with Santa Claus Is Coming to Town and Santa Claus Came to Town, creating a playful narrative between “is coming” and “came.”

expand_lessRaise the rankingexpand_morelower

Hane Keisuke

Report a problem

Wonderful ChristmastimePaul McCartney

How to Play “Wonderful Christmastime” by Paul McCartney | HDpiano (Part 1) Piano Tutorial

Wonderful Christmastime, released by Paul McCartney in 1979, is a song about enjoying the special day of Christmas.

With simple lyrics, melody, and chords, it’s a great choice to try for a solo performance with vocals and instrument.

For the right hand’s repeated chords, aim to play with a gentle touch—imagine snow quietly falling—so it doesn’t sound too loud.

While capturing the festive mood of Christmas, try to shape your performance so it also evokes the quiet scenery of a winter town.

expand_lessRaise the rankingexpand_morelower

HATSUMI

Report a problem

Have Yourself A Merry Little ChristmasRalph Blane & Hugh Martin

Merry Little Christmas (Piano): Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas (Piano)

This song was featured in the 1944 American musical film Meet Me in St.

Louis, and it continues to be sung today as a classic Christmas song.

Its theme is something like, “If fate allows, let’s spend Christmas together again.” Because the melody is so beautiful, it is often performed as a piano solo or by a piano trio.

expand_lessRaise the rankingexpand_morelower

Hirakawa Masako (Bōkarisuto: Sakata Mizumako)

Report a problem

Winter WonderlandRichard B. Smith、Felix Bernard

Dave Brubeck / A Dave Brubeck Christmas – Winter Wonderland

Lyrics by Richard B.

Smith, music by Felix Bernard.

It’s an American pop song released in 1934.

It has been covered by many artists, including Bing Crosby.

Often performed in a lively four-beat tempo, it’s a classic Christmas song, and it sounds wonderful on the piano.

expand_lessRaise the rankingexpand_morelower

Hirakawa Masako (Bōkarisuto: Sakata Mizumako)

Report a problem