Last Christmas (arr. Kevin Olson): Easy Piano Solo

Kevin Olson's arrangement captures the instantly recognizable melody and harmonic movement of this holiday standard while keeping the technical demands accessible. Students get to play something genuinely recognizable that their families will appreciate, which builds motivation for solo repertoire work. The three-page length makes it substantial enough to feel like a complete performance without overwhelming early intermediate pianists.

Warm and nostalgic with an underlying rhythmic energy that keeps it current. The arrangement balances the song's reflective melody with enough harmonic color and movement to stay engaging for both player and listener throughout.

Early intermediate pianists who want to perform a recognizable holiday piece that connects with their audience. This works equally well for students preparing a winter recital, building solo repertoire, or gaining confidence performing music that resonates emotionally.

• Balance the melody against any accompanimental figures by thinking through your hand independence. The right hand should sing while the left hand stays supportive and clear.
• Pay close attention to the harmonic rhythm and chord changes; these moments define the song's character, so let them shape your phrasing naturally.
• Since this piece is so familiar to listeners, slight rubato in the melody line can enhance the arrangement without disrupting its grooves. Experiment with subtle tempo flexibility at phrase endings.

Include this in a holiday concert as a solo feature that bridges classical recital traditions with contemporary pop sensibilities. It also works beautifully as a stand-alone piece during winter celebrations when you want something polished but approachable, or as part of a student recital program where it provides a tonal contrast to more classical fare.

• Playing a recognizable pop melody with musical phrasing and dynamic shape
• Hand independence between melody and accompaniment
• Reading and executing harmonic progressions in a pop arrangement
• Sustaining interest across a three-page solo piece