Spirit of the Season (from "The Polar Express"): Easy Piano
Words and music by Glen Ballard and Alan Silvestri / arr. Dan Coates
Level: Easy Piano
Item: 00-PS-0012900
Pickup currently not available
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Description
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More about this title
About the Composer: Glenn Ballard
Glenn Ballard composed the score for "The Polar Express," capturing the wonder and warmth of Chris Van Allsburg's beloved holiday story. His work on the film demonstrates a gift for writing music that serves narrative moments while remaining accessible to young musicians discovering these melodies at the piano.
Alan Silvestri, the film's orchestral composer, created the sweeping instrumental framework that supports Ballard's vocal themes. Together, their contributions shaped a musical landscape that has become central to holiday programming for over two decades.
Why we love this
This collection captures the warmth and nostalgia of The Polar Express through arrangements that sit comfortably under the hands without sacrificing the film's emotional character. The variety of tempos and moods keeps practice sessions engaging, and the full-color scenes throughout the folio make it as much a keepsake as a playable resource.
What to expect
Cozy and cinematic, with a nostalgic warmth that evokes winter evenings and the quiet magic of the holidays. The writing moves easily between intimate moments of reflection and joyful, propulsive passages that capture the film's sense of wonder.
Who it's for
Early-intermediate pianists who want accessible holiday repertoire with real artistic substance, and teachers seeking collectible material that motivates students through beloved film music and engaging visual design. Solo pianists preparing seasonal recital programs or casual performance contexts will find reliable, singable arrangements here.
How to get the most out of it
- Balance the melody against the accompaniment so that thematic lines sing clearly without the left hand becoming muddy; this matters especially in lyrical pieces like 'Believe' where simplicity is the strength.
- Lean into the rhythmic momentum in upbeat tracks such as 'Rockin' on Top of the World' to maintain energy; these pieces reward confident, steady tempo work.
- Use the illustrated scenes as a visual anchor to set mood and intention before you play each piece, helping you connect physically to the character of the music.
How to use it
This folio works beautifully as a standalone holiday recital program or as a thematic set within a winter concert. Consider pairing it with more complex seasonal works for mixed-level studio recitals, or use individual selections as supplemental repertoire in holiday lesson plans during November and December.
Skills your students will build
- Reading and executing simple accompaniment patterns in both hands simultaneously
- Shaping melodic lines with consistent tone and phrasing in major keys
- Managing tempo consistency across a variety of song styles and moods
- Balancing treble-clef melody against bass-clef supporting voices
- Sight-reading lyrical and rhythmic pieces at the early-intermediate level