Beginner piece
How to play Jingle Bells on piano
Written in 1857 and first published as "One Horse Open Sleigh". It is a good one to learn in November and December because the tune repeats and you can hear mistakes right away.
- Composer
- James Lord Pierpont
- Level
- Beginner
- Key
- G major or C major in most beginner books
- Time signature
- 4/4
- Hands
- Right hand, then both
What makes it tricky
- The three repeated notes at the start of the chorus. They need to be even, not rushed.
- The change near the end of the chorus where the tune jumps. Look at the staff before you land on it.
A three-step practice plan
- Play the first line only and loop it until it is steady.
- Add the next line, then the ending.
- Count 1 2 3 4 out loud for one run through, then play along with it quietly.