If you love to sing Christmas carols, you might want to learn how to play "Oh Christmas Tree" to accompany them on the piano. "Oh Christmas Tree" is a relatively simple song to learn, as it only involves two chords. The version of the song recognizable today is translated from the original German song, "Oh Tannenbaum".http://www.hymnsandcarolsofchristmas.com/Hymns_and_Carols/Notes_On_Carols/o_christmas_tree-notes.htm
Versions of the song "Oh Christmas Tree" appeared as early as 1799. The lyrics of this Christmas song seem to vary based on the source of the music, but the melody typically remains the same. No matter what version of the song is sung, they all seem to share a general message of paying tribute to the Christmas tree.http://www.hymnsandcarolsofchristmas.com/Hymns_and_Carols/Notes_On_Carols/o_christmas_tree-notes.htm
How to Play Oh Christmas Tree on Piano
Lindsey Cloud, pianist, teaches viewers how to play "Oh Christmas Tree" on the piano. Lindsey can be seen playing the chords from a close view and she also provides expert supporting commentary.
Step 1: Learn the Chords
When playing "Oh Christmas Tree", your left hand will be playing the chords for the song. You will need to know how to play a C chord and a G7 chord. Begin with your left hand in the C position and play the following chords in the following order: C C G7 C C C G7 C C G7 G7 C C C G7 C.http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nevFPFePQ7g
Step 2: Learn the Melody
The melody will be played primarily with your right hand. Begin with your right hand in the C position. The thumb of your left hand will play the first note of the verse. Learning to play the melody for "Oh Christmas Tree" involves becoming familiar with the following notes: C D E F G and A. You do not need to know how to play sharps or flats to be able to play this song.http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nevFPFePQ7g
Step 3: Learn to Combine the Chords and the Melody
When learning to play "Oh Christmas Tree", you will need to know how to coordinate your left and your right hands to play different notes at the same time. The easiest way to do this is to memorize the chords and the melody separately, before moving on to playing them together. Memorize by practicing each section without looking at the sheet music.http://wiki.youngcomposers.com/Piano_Practicing_Techniques
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References
Fast Facts
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Fact:
Learn the parts for your right hand and your left hand separately.
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Fact:
Begin with both hands in the C position.
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Fact:
Learn how to play a C and a G7 chord before beginning.
