Classical and Jazz Christmas Music to Get You in the Holiday Spirit
Here are some of our favorite classical and jazz Christmas tracks to get you feeling festive this holiday season!
Introduction
There’s nothing quite like listening to Christmas music to get you in the holiday spirit. But if you’re tired of the same old pop songs, why not switch things up and try some classical or jazz Christmas music instead?
Classical Christmas music includes traditional carols, as well as more modern pieces composed by classical masters like Bach, Beethoven, and Brahms. Jazz Christmas music includes festive interpretations of both traditional carols and popular holiday songs, often with a swinging or bluesy twist.
So whether you’re looking for something old or something new, classical or jazz, we’ve got you covered with our list of the best Christmas music to get you in the holiday spirit.
Classical Christmas Music
If you’re looking for some classical Christmas music to get you in the holiday spirit, look no further than these five festive tracks. From Bach to Tchaikovsky, these pieces are sure to jingle your bells and get you feeling merry and bright.
“The Nutcracker Suite” by Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky
One of the most well-known and beloved classical Christmas pieces is “The Nutcracker Suite” by Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky. This work was originally written for the ballet “The Nutcracker,” which premiered in Russia in 1892. The ballet was not particularly successful, but the suite of eight dances that Tchaikovsky extracted from it has become one of the most performed and recorded pieces of classical music.
“The Nutcracker Suite” has been arranged for a wide variety of ensembles, from solo piano to full orchestra. It is often performed during the holiday season and has become associated with Christmas. The suite’s most famous dance is the “Danse de la Fée Dragée” (“Dance of the Sugarplum Fairy”), which always delights audiences with its delicate beauty.
“The Messiah” by George Frideric Handel
One of the most beloved pieces of holiday music is “The Messiah” by George Frideric Handel. This work was originally written as an oratorio, or a musical work for performance without stage action or props. “The Messiah” was first performed in Dublin, Ireland in 1742 and has since become a holiday tradition all over the world.
This piece is structured in three parts, each part featuring different solo vocalists and choruses. The soloists sing about various aspects of the Nativity story, while the choruses sing about the coming of the Messiah and his eventual crucifixion and resurrection. “The Messiah” ends with the famous “Hallelujah” chorus, which is sure to get you in the holiday spirit!
“The Sleigh Ride” by Leroy Anderson
“The Sleigh Ride” is a delightful piece of classical Christmas music composed by Leroy Anderson in 1948. The charming and melody is sure to get you in the holiday spirit!
Jazz Christmas Music
“Santa Claus is Coming to Town” by Dave Brubeck
One of the most popular Christmas songs, “Santa Claus is Coming to Town” was written by John Frederick Coots and Haven Gillespie in 1934. The song has been recorded by a wide variety of artists, but this arrangement by Dave Brubeck and his quartet is one of the most iconic.
Brubeck’s arrangement features a jazzy piano solo by the man himself, as well as solos from alto saxophonist Paul Desmond and bassist Eugene Wright. The result is a fun and festive Christmas song that’s sure to get you in the holiday spirit!
“Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas” by Miles Davis
One of the most iconic Christmas songs, “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas” has been covered by countless artists across multiple genres. But there’s something special about Miles Davis’ version, which he recorded in 1968. Jazz purists may sniff at the arrangement, which features elements of pop and bossa nova, but there’s no denying the beauty of Davis’ trumpet playing. It’s the perfect song to get you in the holiday spirit.
“Winter Wonderland” by Duke Ellington
Duke Ellington’s “Winter Wonderland” is a classic Christmas song that has been performed by many artists over the years. This particular version was recorded by the Duke Ellington Orchestra in 1966 and features a duet between Ellington and his son, Mercer Ellington. The song has a relaxed, jazzy feel that is perfect for getting you in the holiday spirit.
Conclusion
As we wrap up our journey through classical and jazz Christmas music, we hope you have found some new favorite tracks to help get you into the holiday spirit! Whether you’re looking for something festive to play in the background while you decorate the tree or need some calm, relaxing tunes to help you wind down after a long day of holiday shopping, these classical and jazz Christmas classics are sure to do the trick.
