Christmas Joy: Solos for Piano Students

A couple of months ago I said, "You know you're a music teacher when you're thinking about Halloween in August."

Well, the sentiment holds true for today's post.

Here we are, dedicated piano teachers, preparing for Christmastime and singing all of those carols while watching jack-o-lanterns and ghosts go by as we drive to work.

I don't know about you, but I've been singing Christmas music for the last 2 weeks or so.

Today, I'll be sharing with you 6 Christmas songs that I've arranged for my students over the years. It is my hope that you and your students will get as much enjoyment out of them as my students and I have.


Up on the Housetop
This fun arrangement gives students the chance to explore the wide range of the piano and with a glissando for a flourishing end.


Jingle Bells
This is by far the most requested piece in my studio.

EVER.

Seriously, everyone wants to learn Jingle Bells. This pre-reading arrangement is easily accessible to young beginners.


O Christmas Tree
The second most popular piece that my students request? O Christmas Tree.

This approachable arrangement will help your elementary piano students learn eighth notes in a familiar and comfortable way.


O Holy Night
Requested by an adult student, this lyrical arrangement is simple & beautiful.


We Wish You A Merry Christmas
Three things that make this early elementary arrangement awesome:

1. It's the WHOLE song! - no watering down here
2. No eighth notes - the rhythm is easily accessible to your students
3. Middle C Position - or as my students and I call it "astronaut thumbs"

Deck the Hall
With or without the "s" at the end of the title, this is a piece that your elementary piano students will adore!

Just like We Wish You a Merry Christmas, there are no eighth notes, but the RH position changes and the LH intervals add a little sugar and spice to this piece.