Christmas Stylings: Modern & Bright, Book 1: Piano Book

These arrangements breathe with modern energy while honoring the warmth of Christmas standards. Sophisticated harmonies and contemporary rhythmic phrasing create an intimate, refreshed quality, as if these beloved melodies are being heard in a stylish jazz lounge rather than a traditional concert hall.

Intermediate to late intermediate pianists who are ready to move beyond basic carol arrangements but still need clear pedagogical structure. This collection works well for students preparing solo repertoire for winter recitals or those performing in holiday contexts where something more sophisticated than beginner-level material is appropriate.

• Listen closely to how Aaronson treats the bass line in each piece; these aren't just supporting voices but active musical partners that often carry contemporary rhythmic figures worth highlighting.
• Balance the jazz harmonies with clear articulation on the melody so the familiar tunes remain recognizable even when surrounded by sophisticated voicings.
• Experiment with tempo flexibility in the slower pieces; the contemporary treatment can support subtle rubato that feels natural rather than rigid.

Perfect for a holiday recital that needs to appeal to audiences expecting tradition but deserving artistry. You can also use individual pieces throughout December for pre-concert warm-ups or special events, since the collection spans accessible to more challenging arrangements within the same volume.

• Reading jazz voicings and extended harmonies (7ths, 9ths, altered chords)
• Balancing melody against complex accompaniment textures
• Interpreting contemporary rhythmic figures in the context of familiar material
• Executing smooth voice leading when moving between traditional and modern harmonic language