A Fresh Take on Festive Classics
Every December, Christmas songs fill offices, shops, and dinner parties across the country. They’re cheerful, familiar, and often a little overplayed — but when performed live, they take on a completely new life.
At JAM Duo, we love reimagining festive favourites through the rich warmth of the cello and the sparkling tone of the piano. Our live performances create a sophisticated yet joyful soundtrack for corporate events, private parties, and Christmas weddings alike.
Here are ten of our most requested (and most loved) Christmas pieces — each beautifully arranged to sound magical on piano and cello.
1. Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas
A timeless classic that never fails to touch the heart. On cello, its melody feels warm and nostalgic, while the piano adds gentle, shimmering chords that instantly set a festive mood — perfect for guest arrival or during a seated dinner.
2. Fairytale of New York – The Pogues
This modern Christmas anthem has a raw beauty that translates surprisingly well to our instruments. The cello brings out its bittersweet emotion, while the piano captures its waltz-like rhythm — ideal for an evening reception with a touch of character.
3. Last Christmas – Wham!
Everyone knows it, everyone hums along — but our stripped-back version turns this pop classic into something elegant and romantic. Perfect as background music during networking drinks or cocktail hour.
4. All I Want for Christmas Is You – Mariah Carey
Yes, it’s big, it’s bold, and everyone secretly loves it. Our instrumental arrangement keeps the upbeat joy of the original but translates it into something classy and fun — full of sparkle without overwhelming the room.
5. Winter Wonderland
Few songs evoke festive cheer as effortlessly as Winter Wonderland. The piano sets a crisp rhythm while the cello sings the familiar melody — ideal for outdoor receptions, marquee events, or champagne toasts under fairy lights.
6. Walking in the Air – Howard Blake (from The Snowman)
One of the most beautiful and evocative Christmas melodies ever written. The cello line carries pure emotion, while the piano brings shimmering stillness — perfect for a reflective interlude or a quiet moment during a corporate dinner.
7. Let It Snow! Let It Snow! Let It Snow!
Lively, jazzy, and full of swing, this number always brings smiles. We often include it in our more upbeat festive sets — an instant mood-booster that works beautifully as guests move between courses or onto the dance floor.
8. The Christmas Song (Chestnuts Roasting on an Open Fire)
Smooth and timeless, this piece embodies everything about Christmas evenings — warmth, comfort, and good company. Our version is gentle and luxurious, ideal for background music at elegant festive dinners.
9. It’s Beginning to Look a Lot Like Christmas
Light, melodic, and instantly recognisable, this one adds a classic charm to any drinks reception. Its graceful arrangement for piano and cello makes it feel both familiar and freshly festive.
10. Silent Night
We often close our festive sets with this serene, heartfelt carol. Played slowly and delicately, it creates a peaceful moment that invites reflection — a quiet, beautiful way to end an evening.
Beyond the Christmas Classics
Of course, not every festive event calls for traditional carols. Many of our corporate clients enjoy a blend of seasonal favourites and modern hits, giving the evening a contemporary twist. We regularly include songs by Coldplay, Ed Sheeran, Elton John, Taylor Swift, and even film themes like Love Actually’s “PM’s Love Theme.”
Because every JAM Duo performance is 100 % live, we can adjust the tempo, tone and style to fit your audience and venue — from soft background music to a lively, post-dinner set that gets people moving.
Why Our Festive Arrangements Work So Well
- Familiar, but fresh: Guests recognise the tunes immediately, but the live cello-piano combination gives them new texture and warmth.
- Elegant yet fun: We strike the perfect balance between professionalism and festive cheer — ideal for corporate gatherings.
- Perfectly timed: No playlists, no abrupt transitions. We shape the flow of your event in real time.
- Visually appealing: The look of a real piano and cello adds a sense of theatre and class to any space.
Let’s Create Your Christmas Soundtrack
If you’re planning a corporate Christmas event or private festive celebration, JAM Duo can provide music that feels fresh, classy and perfectly seasonal.
🎶 Explore our Listen Page for inspiration
📅 Enquire via our Contact Page to check availability
Bring your event to life this Christmas with the elegant sound of live piano and cello — the ultimate festive upgrade.
