10 Best Classical Guitar Christmas Songs

Here are ten of the best classical guitar Christmas songs that are sure to get you in the holiday spirit!

Introduction

There are all sorts of ways to enjoy the holidays, and for many people, that includes listening to festive music. If you’re a classical guitar fan, then you might be wondering what Christmas songs are out there that you can enjoy on your instrument.

Fortunately, there is a wealth of classical Christmas music that has been composed specifically for guitar, and in this article, we’ll be taking a look at ten of the best pieces. So whether you’re looking for something to play at a holiday party or just want to relax with some festive tunes, read on for our list of the best classical guitar Christmas songs.

“Silent Night” by Francisco Tarrega

One of the most popular and loved Christmas carols of all time, “Silent Night” was originally composed in 1818 by Austrian priest Franz Xaver Gruber with lyrics by Joseph Mohr. The song was first performed that same year on Christmas Eve in the small town of Oberndorf bei Salzburg, and has since become a holiday classic sung around the world.

While there are many arrangements of “Silent Night” for classical guitar, one of the most beautiful and famous is by 19th-century Spanish virtuoso Francisco Tarrega. Tarrega’s arrangement is a beautifully understated introduction to this timeless Christmas carol, perfect for beginning classical guitarists.

“Ave Maria” by Giulio Regondi

Giulio Regondi was a 19th-century Italian classical guitarist and composer. While “Ave Maria” is not specifically a Christmas song, it is often included on holiday compilations and is a beautiful and serene piece that captures the spirit of the season.

“Adeste Fideles” by Mauro Giuliani

“Adeste Fideles” is a Christmas carol that has been arranged for classical guitar by many different artists over the years. Mauro Giuliani’s arrangement is one of the most popular and well-known versions. Giuliani was an Italian guitarist and composer who lived during the Classical period. His arrangement of “Adeste Fideles” is a beautiful and elegant piece that is perfect for holiday gatherings and performances.

“Greensleeves” by Anonymous

One of the most popular classical guitar Christmas songs, “Greensleeves” is a traditional English folk song. The melody first appeared in the 16th century and has been adapted by various artists over the years. This particular arrangement by classical guitarist Christopher Parkening is simply beautiful.

“The First Noel” by Isaac Albeniz

This beautiful solo guitar arrangement of the traditional English carol “The First Noel” by Spanish composer Isaac Albeniz is one of the most popular and performed pieces for classical guitar at Christmas time.

” Jesu, Joy of Man’s Desiring” by Johann Sebastian Bach

One of the most popular classical guitar Christmas songs, “Jesu, Joy of Man’s Desiring” was originally composed by Johann Sebastian Bach. The piece is often performed as a solo, but can also be played as a duet or with an orchestra.

“O Holy Night” by Charles-Valentin Alkan

“O Holy Night” is a classic Christmas carol that has been performed by many different artists over the years. One of the most beautiful and moving versions is this one by Charles-Valentin Alkan, a French composer and virtuoso pianist who was active in the Romantic era.

Alkan’s “O Holy Night” is played on a classical guitar, which gives it a unique and lovely sound. The piece is slow and calming, making it perfect for listening to while you enjoy the lights and decorations of the holiday season.

“In the Bleak Midwinter” by Gustav Holst

“In the Bleak Midwinter” is a beautiful and moving Christmas carol that has been arranged for classical guitar by a number of different composers. Gustav Holst’s arrangement is one of the most popular, and it’s easy to see why. The melody is simple and elegant, and the chord progression is dreamy and spiritual. This is a perfect piece to play during the holiday season, or any time you need a little bit of peace and calm in your life.

“Hark! The Herald Angels Sing” by Felix Mendelssohn

This beautiful piece by Felix Mendelssohn is possibly the most popular classical guitar Christmas song. It has been played by many different artists over the years, including Andres Segovia, Julian Bream, and John Williams. The song is in 6/8 time and has a moderate tempo.