Are you looking for a way to make your Christmas season extra special this year? Why not try out some easy Christmas piano songs! Not only are these tunes perfect for setting the festive mood of the holiday, but they’re also great practice pieces if you’re new to learning an instrument. With our ultimate list of must-know Christmas classics, let yourself have a moment of peaceful serenity as you create beautiful music by candlelight! Keep reading to learn all about how to get started playing with confidence – and you might even surprise yourself by finding out how much fun it is too.
Easy Christmas Piano Songs
All I Want For Christmas Is You
This song is a great choice for those of you that want to play something upbeat and joyful for your holiday piano recital. With its signature melody and catchy chorus, it’s sure to get the crowd singing along!
Baby, It’s Cold Outside
This classic duet is a great way to show off your duetting skills with a partner! Its catchy melody and smooth jazz feel make it the perfect accompaniment to any holiday event.
Caroling, Caroling
It is one of the most popular Christmas carols to sing and play on the piano. Composed by Alfred Burt in 1954, this beloved song has been recorded by some of the greats including Nat King Cole and Bing Crosby. It’s a perfect choice for beginner pianists as it only requires basic chords and a few simple runs. If you want something extra special, add your own ornamentation! [1]
Blue Christmas
This song is traditionally associated with Elvis Presley, but it was originally written by Billy Hayes and Jay W. Johnson as a jazz-flavored blues number. The melody has an easy walking bass line, making it easy to play on the piano. To bring out the jazzy feel even more, add some extended chords like dominants and ninths. It’s a great choice for those looking for something unique and retro this Christmas season!
A Child Is Born
It is an ideal Christmas piano piece for beginner and intermediate pianists. A melody of joyous, simple chords will make any Christmas celebration memorable. To add a little more challenge to this song, try playing the chords with both hands.
The Chipmunk Song
It is one of the most iconic Christmas songs to come out of the 1950s, and it can be surprisingly easy to play on the piano. With its lively melody and fun lyrics, this song is sure to bring a smile to everyone’s face! The twelve bar blues chord progression makes it an excellent choice for beginner pianists. Start by learning the melody in Middle C position, and then work your way up to playing both hands together. You can also add some extra pizzazz by using swing rhythms or jazzy chords.
The Christmas Song
This classic holiday song is a great one for beginners to learn on the piano. It has an easy-to-follow chord progression and gentle melody that can be played in either hands-together or single hand style. Start by playing the chords with your left hand, then add the melody with your right. There are some fun opportunities for improvisation during certain sections of the song, so feel free to let your creativity shine! [2]
Christmas Time Is Here
This sweet and simple holiday tune was made famous by Vince Guaraldi’s version in the classic 1965 TV special A Charlie Brown Christmas. It’s a great beginner-friendly song to play on the piano, as it can be played with just one hand (the left). Start with some simple chords and then add the melody with your right hand. Once you get comfortable, you can work on adding some extra ornamentation or improvisation to make it your own.
Christmas Wrapping
Christmas Wrapping by The Waitresses is an easy and fun Christmas piano song to learn. It starts off with a simple note pattern that slowly builds up as the song progresses. The melody is catchy and lighthearted, making it perfect for any skill level of pianist. It also has great lyrics about getting ready for the holidays, so it can be a great addition to any holiday party playlist. As you practice playing this tune, take some time to really listen to the lyrics and add your own flair along the way!
Do They Know It’s Christmas?
Do They Know It’s Christmas by Band Aid is a classic holiday piano song. The melody is fairly simple and easy to play, but the harmonization of the chorus is slightly more advanced. This song also has meaning behind it – it was originally made to raise awareness for famine in Ethiopia, so its lyrics are especially important. As you learn this tune, be sure to take time to appreciate what the song stands for. You can even share some of your own experiences with others as you practice playing!
Do You Hear What I Hear
It is a beloved Christmas classic that many pianists enjoy playing during the holiday season. The song has been recorded by numerous artists, including Bing Crosby, Whitney Houston, and Celine Dion. It is an easy piece to learn on the piano as it uses simple chords and only has a few hand positions. With its catchy lyrics and memorable melody, this popular carol is sure to add cheer to any festive gathering. [3]
Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas
This song is a popular holiday standard, and it can be played beautifully on the piano. The piece has been recorded by many singers throughout the years, from Judy Garland to John Legend. It features a gentle melody that is easy for beginner pianists to learn and master. Plus, its timeless lyrics make for an uplifting performance that will add meaningful joy to your holiday celebration.
Feliz Navidad
It is a classic Christmas song for piano. It is relatively easy to play, and its lighthearted tone makes it a great choice for the holidays. The melody follows an up-and-down pattern that should be familiar to most beginner pianists. While the arrangement may seem simple, there are some subtle variations that make it fun to learn and play.
A Holly Jolly Christmas
This Christmas classic by Johnny Marks is well-known for its catchy melody and good cheer. It can be played as a solo piece at parties or around the house, or as part of an ensemble with other instruments. To give it a more festive feel, try adding some light ornamentation to the melody or chords.
Frosty The SnowMan
It is a classic Christmas piano song that all ages will enjoy. This cheerful tune is a great way to get everyone in the holiday spirit! It has a few simple chords and can be learned quickly by both beginners and more experienced players. Once you’ve mastered the chord progression, you’ll have no problem playing this enjoyable piece for your friends and family. The melody is so catchy it’s sure to put smiles on everyone’s faces! [4]
Grandma Got Run Over By A Reindeer
It is another popular Christmas piano song. It has a bit of a darker tone, but it’s still full of holiday cheer! This piece is great for intermediate to advanced players as there are some tricky chord progressions and more complex rhythms to master. Don’t let that intimidate you though – the end result will be well worth the effort! Once you’ve perfected it, this fun tune can be used to give any gathering an extra dose of holiday spirit.
Happy Xmas
“Happy Xmas (War Is Over)” is a simple and iconic holiday song that can be easily played on the piano. The chorus repeats with only slight variations throughout the song, making it easy to learn in no time. With its simple three-chord accompaniment, this piano rendition of “Happy Xmas (War Is Over)” can make for great caroling or a memorable performance. You could even add your own personal touches to make the piece more unique. Let your creativity take over and show off your skills! In addition to its traditional melody, there are plenty of other renditions available online if you’re looking for something a bit different from the original version.
Here Comes Santa Claus
This one’s a classic that you can’t go wrong with. Here Comes Santa Claus is a joyful, upbeat song to get everyone in the holiday spirit. It’s an ideal choice for beginners and experienced piano players alike since it only requires basic chords and minimal articulation. You can play this festive tune at parties or any other seasonal get-togethers. For a more traditional sound, try playing it slower and softer; if you’re feeling bold, add some improvisation and up the tempo!
Jingle Bell Rock
It is a classic Christmas song that will get everyone in the holiday spirit. Perfect for any piano player, it is an easy song to play on the piano. The bells and cheerful melody make it a great choice for playing during family gatherings or at holiday parties. It’s sure to bring smiles all around!
I Heard The Bells On Christmas Day
It is one of the most popular and accessible Christmas piano songs. It’s a beautiful piece that captures the joy and peace of the season perfectly. The melody conveys an old-world charm but can be adapted to suit modern styles with ease. This beloved carol was first published in 1872, and has since been covered by countless artists from various genres, ensuring it will remain a holiday classic for generations to come. To play this song on the piano, beginners should start with the rhythm track, as some of the melodic intervals may be challenging. With some practice, you’ll soon have it mastered! [5]
I Wonder As I Wander
This gentle carol is a perfect fit for the piano. Its slow, melancholic melody celebrates the mystery and awe of Christmas. It was first collected by John Jacob Niles in 1933, with traditional Appalachian folk melodies serving as inspiration. The song’s harmonic progressions add to its gentle beauty, while its simple structure makes it easy to learn. Whether you’re playing solo or with an ensemble, this timeless piece will bring peace and wonder to any holiday gathering.
I’ll Be Home For Christmas
This Christmas standard has been recorded countless times throughout the decades, and for good reason. Its heartfelt sentiment is perfect for piano accompaniment, as its simple chords can be embellished to add dimension. Try adding an extra measure or two of your own improvisation in between phrases to really make it your own. With some practice, you’ll soon have this classic sounding like a pro!
It’s Beginning To Look Like Christmas
This jazzy holiday tune brings a touch of fun to any Christmas gathering. Its upbeat melody is easy to learn, and the bluesy chord changes add extra flavor. The song also serves as an excellent platform for improvisation, so don’t hesitate to ad-lib some solos and flourishes. With just a few practice runs, you’ll have your own version of this festive classic ready in no time!
Last Christmas
It is a classic holiday song that sounds great on the piano. It has a catchy melody and lyrics that will have your audience singing along in no time. The key to playing this song is to practice it slowly and focus on getting comfortable with the notes before you try to speed up. Once you’ve got the chords down, add in small embellishments and decorations for an extra festive feel.
Let It Snow!
A jazzy take on a winter classic, Let It Snow! is sure to get your audience in the holiday spirit. Begin by playing a steady rhythm of eighth notes with your right hand and then fill it out with added chords from your left hand. You can also add some syncopation or extra rhythms for an even more festive performance. [6]
The Little Drummer Boy
It is a classic Christmas song that all kids (and adults!) love to play on the piano. It’s perfect for beginners, as it has simple chords and an easy-to-follow melody. To learn the Little Drummer Boy, start by playing a few scales and then learning how to roll your fingers across the keys. This will help you create a steady rhythm for the song, which should sound like drums being played steadily in the background. After that, you can practice playing both hands together while singing along with the lyrics of this beloved holiday tune!
A Marshmallow World
This is a cheerful and fun Christmas song that’s perfect for the festive season. It can be played in both a slow and upbeat tempo, depending on your preference! To learn this tune, start by practicing playing chords with your left hand. This will help you create a smooth and jazzy texture during the verse section of the song. Once you feel comfortable with the left-hand part, move on to using your right hand to play the melody notes. Finally, practice singing along while playing – it’ll give you a unique take on this classic!
Mary, Did You Know?
It is a beautiful carol that can easily be played on the piano during the holiday season. It’s a great choice for beginner pianists because it has fairly simple chord progressions and doesn’t require any complicated arpeggios or hand-jumping. Playing Mary, Did You Know? will add a special touch to any Christmas recital or gathering.
Merry Christmas, Baby
This classic Christmas carol is a favorite among jazz musicians, and it can be easily adapted for the piano. The melody is relatively simple and the rhythm straightforward, making this song perfect for intermediate players who want to add some festive flair to their playing. With its catchy chorus and jazzy feel, Merry Christmas, Baby will make an excellent addition to any holiday celebration.
The Most Wonderful Time Of The Year
It is a classic Christmas song that is easy to learn and play on piano. The upbeat tempo makes it the perfect accompaniment for any holiday gathering. [7]
River
This instrumental classic written by Vince Guaraldi is a must-learn for any pianist. The Broadway show A Charlie Brown Christmas has made this song an iconic part of the holiday season. It’s easy to learn, and the smooth jazz sound of the piece will liven up any holiday gathering!
Nuttin’ For Christmas
It is a great Christmas song for piano players at any skill level. The simple melody and cheerful lyrics make it perfect to play during the holiday season. Playing this song on the piano is easy, with just a few chords and basic rhythms used throughout the song. It’s sure to put everyone in a festive mood!
Please Come Home For Christmas
It is another great Christmas song to play on the piano. It has a simple melody, and it’s easy to learn. The chords used in this song are mostly common chords and can be quickly remembered with practice. This makes it an excellent choice for pianists who want to quickly learn a Christmas song for their holiday performance.
Santa Baby
It is a classic Christmas song that’s easy to play on the piano. It was originally sung by Eartha Kitt in 1953, and has been covered by many famous artists over the years. Although it can be played using various chords, we recommend starting with C major and G7 for beginners. Playing both notes together creates a smooth sound that captures the essence of the song. From there, you can add more complexity to your playing such as arpeggios or grace notes. When playing Santa Baby, don’t forget to have fun – it’s a holiday favorite after all! Once you get comfortable with this arrangement, try moving up and down the keyboard while playing different chord progressions. You may even find some creative variations along the way. [8]
Festive Keys: Effortless Joy with Easy Christmas Piano Songs
Infuse your holiday season with the spirit of joy by playing these beginner-friendly Christmas piano songs. Dive into this detailed comparison table, featuring difficulty level, key signature, iconic melodies, tempo, and song structure. Elevate the festive atmosphere as you effortlessly play these cherished Christmas classics on the piano.
| Song | Difficulty Level | Key Signature | Iconic Melodies | Tempo (BPM) | Song Structure |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jingle Bells | Easy | C Major | Classic Carol | 120 | Verse, Chorus, Verse, Chorus, Bridge, Chorus, Outro |
| Silent Night | Beginner | G Major | Soothing Hymn | 92 | Verse, Chorus, Verse, Chorus, Bridge, Chorus, Outro |
| Deck the Halls | Easy | F Major | Festive Tune | 144 | Verse, Chorus, Verse, Chorus, Bridge, Chorus, Outro |
| We Wish You a Merry Christmas | Beginner | D Major | Cheerful Chorus | 100 | Verse, Chorus, Verse, Chorus, Bridge, Chorus, Outro |
| O Holy Night | Intermediate | B-flat Major | Emotional Ballad | 68 | Verse, Chorus, Verse, Chorus, Bridge, Chorus, Outro |
Explanation:
- Jingle Bells: Easy difficulty level, in C Major, features the classic carol melody. The song structure includes verse, chorus, verse, chorus, bridge, chorus, and outro at a tempo of 120 BPM.
- Silent Night: Beginner difficulty level, in G Major, offers a soothing hymn melody. The structure consists of verse, chorus, verse, chorus, bridge, chorus, and outro at a tempo of 92 BPM.
- Deck the Halls: Easy difficulty level, in F Major, delivers a festive tune. The song follows a verse-chorus-verse-chorus-bridge-chorus-outro structure at a tempo of 144 BPM.
- We Wish You a Merry Christmas: Beginner difficulty level, in D Major, features a cheerful chorus. The structure includes verse, chorus, verse, chorus, bridge, chorus, and outro at a tempo of 100 BPM.
- O Holy Night: Intermediate difficulty level, in B-flat Major, presents an emotional ballad. The song follows a verse-chorus-verse-chorus-bridge-chorus-outro structure at a tempo of 68 BPM.
Bring the magic of Christmas to life with your piano playing as you delight in these holiday classics.
FAQ
What is the easiest Christmas song on piano?
The simplest Christmas song to learn on piano is “Jingle Bells”. It only requires playing one note at a time with both hands, and it’s a great way for beginner pianists to get comfortable with the basics. Other easy songs include “We Wish You a Merry Christmas”, “Silent Night”, and “Deck the Halls”.
What are some popular Christmas songs to play on piano?
Some of the most popular Christmas songs that are fun to learn on piano include “Jingle Bell Rock”, “White Christmas”, “Frosty The Snowman”, and “Rudolph The Red-Nosed Reindeer”. All of these songs require a bit more skill than “Jingle Bells”, but they are still relatively easy for beginners to learn. Other popular holiday tunes include “Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas”, “Let It Snow! Let It Snow! Let It Snow!”, and “O Holy Night”.
Are there any classical Christmas pieces I can play on the piano?
If you want to challenge yourself with some more difficult pieces, there are many classic compositions from composers such as Tchaikovsky and Bach that are traditionally played during the holidays. Some examples include “The Nutcracker Suite” or Johann Sebastian Bach’s “Christmas Oratorio”. These pieces require much more practice than the popular songs listed above, but they are rewarding to learn!
Are there any resources available to help me learn Christmas piano songs?
There are many websites, books, and apps that offer sheet music for popular Christmas songs as well as tutorials on how to play them. You can also find video lessons from experienced piano teachers online. With a bit of dedication and practice, you’ll be able to master these festive tunes quickly!
What’s the least popular Christmas song?
While we may all have our own opinion on the matter, there’s no denying that some songs simply don’t get as much love during the holiday season. If you’re looking to play something a bit more unique this year, consider giving one of these lesser-known Christmas tunes a try! For an upbeat tune to brighten up your piano practice session, check out Jose Feliciano’s version of “Feliz Navidad.” This Latin-flavored take on the traditional carol is sure to add an unexpected twist to any musical gathering. Or, if you need something with a slightly slower tempo, you can try playing “Christmas in Killarney” – an Irish classic about celebrating the holidays in a quaint village by the sea. For a more somber tune, try tackling “Do You Hear What I Hear?” – an ode to the joyous sound of Christmas bells ringing throughout the world. Whether you’re looking for something upbeat or reflective, there are plenty of unique easy Christmas piano songs that can help you ring in the season with style.
How many basic Christmas songs are there?
The number of basic Christmas songs varies widely depending on a person’s definition of what constitutes a “basic” song. However, some of the most popular Christmas carols that have been around for centuries include “Silent Night,” “Joy to the World,” and “O Come All Ye Faithful.” Other classic favorites include “Jingle Bells,” “Hark! The Herald Angels Sing,” and “The First Noel.” Some modern classics like “Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer” and “White Christmas” are also commonly heard around this time of year. In total, there may be anywhere from 50 to 100 different songs that could be considered staples of the holiday season.
What does White Christmas mean?
The phrase “White Christmas” comes from a traditional Christmas carol written by Irving Berlin in 1942. The song is about the nostalgic feeling of longing for a bright, snow-covered holiday season – something that many people dream of during this time of year. The phrase has since been used to evoke feelings of warmth and wishing for wintery joys during the holidays. Although it’s become somewhat cliche, it remains one of the most beloved holiday tunes around the world!
How do you play easy Christmas piano songs?
Playing easy Christmas piano songs requires basic knowledge of piano notes and chords. Start by learning your favorite carols or holiday tunes using sheet music or online tutorials. Once you have an understanding of the melody and chord progression, you can practice playing the pieces in different keys or adding embellishments such as runs and trills. After practicing your chosen songs, you should be able to play them with ease!
How do you make a Christmas song more interesting?
There are many ways to add your own spin to traditional Christmas tunes. To give a song more depth, consider playing it in another key or time signature. You can also incorporate improvisation into your performance by adding unexpected riffs or chords between sections of the melody. Additionally, try experimenting with harmonies or layering multiple instruments over the basic piano part to create a richer sound. With some creativity and experimentation, you can easily transform any classic Christmas song into a unique holiday masterpiece!
Can you recommend easy Christmas piano songs for beginners?
Certainly! Some easy Christmas piano songs for beginners include “Jingle Bells,” “Deck the Halls,” and “Silent Night.” These songs typically have simple melodies and straightforward chord progressions, making them ideal for pianists who are just starting to learn Christmas music.
Which Christmas piano songs are suitable for children or young beginners?
For children or young beginners, songs like “We Wish You a Merry Christmas” and “Up on the Housetop” are great choices. These Christmas piano songs have playful melodies and are often simpler in structure, making them accessible and enjoyable for young learners.
Can you suggest Christmas piano songs that focus on left-hand accompaniment for beginners?
Certainly! “O Christmas Tree” and “Angels We Have Heard on High” are good choices for practicing left-hand accompaniment as a beginner. These Christmas piano songs provide opportunities to work on basic chord patterns and hand coordination while playing festive and recognizable tunes.
Are there any Christmas piano songs with easy arrangements for adult beginners?
For adult beginners, songs like “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas” and “The Christmas Song (Chestnuts Roasting on an Open Fire)” offer relatively simple arrangements. These Christmas piano songs allow adults to enjoy the holiday spirit while learning and playing piano with ease.
What are some Christmas piano songs with minimalistic notation for beginners?
If you’re looking for songs with minimalistic notation, “Away in a Manger” and “Good King Wenceslas” are good choices. These Christmas piano songs have straightforward sheet music, making them accessible for beginners who are still getting comfortable with notation and reading music.
Useful Video: 5 Very Easy Christmas Songs – Piano tutorial – Beginner
Conclusion
Learning easy Christmas piano songs can be a fun and rewarding way to get into the festive spirit. Whether you want to recreate traditional carols or tackle some modern takes on old favorites, there are plenty of options to choose from. With time and practice, you can become an expert at playing these timeless classics. So grab your sheet music and start bringing holiday cheer with your newfound skills!
Happy holidays! 🎄🎹
References:
- https://www.8notes.com/compilations/easy_piano_christmas_compilation/
- https://www.musictoyourhome.com/blog/easy-christmas-songs-for-the-piano/
- https://latouchemusicale.com/en/15-easy-christmas-songs-on-piano/
- https://hellomusictheory.com/learn/easy-christmas-songs-on-piano/
- https://www.pianote.com/blog/christmas-piano-music/
- https://takelessons.com/blog/christmas-piano-songs-z06
- https://www.pianote.com/blog/christmas-piano-music/
- https://makingmusicfun.net/htm/christmas_piano_index