Not Just Another Christmas Book, Book 3: Piano Book & Online Audio

Springer has solved a real programming challenge: accessible jazz arrangements of recognizable Christmas music that don't require a full ensemble. The fact that pianists can play along with recorded bass and drums transforms a solo practice session into something that feels like genuine ensemble playing, which is both motivating and musically valuable. At the late intermediate level, these pieces sit in that sweet spot where students have the technical foundation to handle jazz voicings without being overwhelmed.

A warm, swinging take on Christmas tradition. The arrangements balance the familiar melodies with genuine jazz grooves, creating a feel that's celebratory without being precious. Whether it's the relaxed sway of a jazz waltz or the energetic pulse of a driving swing number, each piece carries the spirit of ensemble playing rather than solo formality.

Late intermediate pianists who are ready to explore jazz idioms beyond classical technique and who benefit from hearing themselves in an ensemble context. This collection works equally well for students preparing recital material, for group lessons where multiple students can rotate playing with the same tracks, or for pianists looking to add contemporary seasonal repertoire to their library.

• Use the practice tempo first to lock in the jazz articulation and swing feel, then move to performance tempo once the rhythmic character is secure.
• Listen closely to the bass line on the recording and imagine playing with it rather than on top of it; this helps with time-feel and ensemble awareness.
• Experiment with the dynamic range available in jazz arrangements: these pieces benefit from gentle touch in softer passages and a confident, grounded sound during stronger sections.
• Pay attention to the walking bass rhythm underneath; it will clarify where the harmonic changes occur and help you voice your comping figures with intention.

Book 3 sits at just the right difficulty for the second half of the piano year or for a winter recital where you want to showcase student growth in contemporary styles. These arrangements also work beautifully in casual settings: holiday parties, community events, or studio gatherings where polished but approachable music sets the right tone. The variety of tempos and feels means you can program multiple pieces to show range without repeating a mood.

• Jazz comping and voicing choices (seventh chords, extensions, harmonic substitutions)
• Swing rhythms and jazz articulation in both melody and accompaniment
• Listening and ensemble awareness through play-along recordings at two tempos
• Balancing independence (maintaining tempo) with responsiveness to recorded bass and drums
• Interpreting genre-specific dynamics and phrasing in a contemporary idiom