Carol Matz brings three decades of classroom experience to every arrangement she publishes. Her work spans over 300 titles, from pedagogical piano collections to ensemble arrangements for orchestra, jazz big band, and chamber groups. She holds formal training in composition, arranging, and orchestration from the University of Miami and has contributed studio arrangements to numerous recording projects.
As both a practicing teacher and clinician, Matz has led workshops across North America and internationally in England, New Zealand, and Australia. Her Famous & Fun series (Alfred Music) demonstrates her gift for meeting students where they are while keeping the music engaging and musically worthwhile.
Why we love this
Matz's arrangement respects the jazz sensibilities of this holiday standard while keeping the technical demands appropriate for developing pianists. The two-page format strikes the right balance between substance and accessibility, giving students a real song to sink their teeth into without overwhelming them. Big note notation removes the reading barrier so young players can focus on interpreting swing rhythms and the infectious melody that makes this tune a seasonal favorite.
What to expect
Playful and swinging, with a lightness that captures the joy of the season without getting saccharine. The rhythmic drive pulls you forward, and the big note format lets young hands make real music happen from the very first page.
Who it's for
Beginning to early intermediate pianists (roughly grades 1-2) who are ready to tackle a recognizable holiday tune with some rhythmic sophistication. This arrangement works beautifully for students who respond well to familiar material and benefit from the confidence boost that comes with playing a song everyone knows.
How to get the most out of it
Keep the left hand steady and groove-oriented rather than metronomic; the rhythm section needs to breathe a little to capture that jazz feel.
Let the syncopated rhythms speak for themselves without rushing. Count carefully through the syncopated passages so the swing lands with confidence.
Layer in the energy during the buildup sections by gradually bringing more pedal and dynamic color into the arrangement.
How to use it
Slot this into a winter concert as a contrasting solo piece between more traditional repertoire, or use it as a sight-reading challenge two weeks before holiday performances when students need something fresh to learn quickly. It also works as a standalone assignment for intermediate students working on jazz articulation and swing feel outside of ensemble rehearsals.
Skills your students will build
Swing rhythms and jazz articulation
Syncopation in a musical context
Dynamic control and pedal technique
Reading and interpreting unfamiliar jazz notation
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