Instruments to get a festive sound

If you’re looking to create a festive musical sound the there are plenty instruments you’ll hear on Christmas songs at this time of year. Creating a festive sound often involves instruments that evoke cheer, energy, and celebration. Here’s a list of instruments commonly associated with festive music…

Melodic Instruments

Accordion: Popular in folk and festive music worldwide, its bright, lively tone is perfect for Christmas markets, parties and dances.
Trumpet: Bright and celebratory, trumpets add grandeur and excitement to festive music, evoking a heralding of the season.
Violin/Fiddle: Played in lively styles, violins are staples in folk music, ceilidhs, and Christmas tunes.
Flute: Light and airy, flutes can add a joyful, ethereal quality to festive music.
Clarinet: Often used in klezmer, jazz, and swing music for a lively and celebratory vibe.
Glockenspiel: Its bright, bell-like tones are ideal for Christmas and holiday-themed music. Listen to the introduction of All I Want For Christmas Is You by Mariah Carey.

Rhythmic and Percussion Instruments

Tambourine: A staple of festive music, its jingling sound adds rhythm and sparkle.
Maracas: Perfect for Latin and Caribbean celebrations, maracas bring a rhythmic, festive energy. Try playing along to José Feliciano’s Feliz Navidad.
Snare Drum: Common in marching bands, it provides a strong, rhythmic pulse for parades and celebrations. Try playing along to Peace On Earth / Little Drummer Boy by Bing Crosby and David Bowie.
Bongos/Congas: Essential in Afro-Cuban and Latin music, these drums add a lively, danceable rhythm.
Castanets: Used in Spanish music, they provide a percussive, celebratory flair.
Triangle: Its bright, tinkling sound adds a lighthearted touch to festive music.

Specialty Instruments

Sleigh Bells: A quintessential sound of Christmas, evoking snow and holiday cheer.
Bagpipes: Often heard in festivals and parades, particularly in Scotland and Ireland, bagpipes add a bold, celebratory sound.
Steel Drums: Associated with Caribbean music, these create a sunny, tropical festival atmosphere.
Harp: Provides an elegant and magical quality, often used in winter or holiday celebrations.
Ukulele: Light and cheerful, perfect for tropical-themed festivities.
Zither/Autoharp: Adds a charming, rustic feel, great for folk and holiday music.

Electronic and Modern Instruments

Synthesizer: Offers endless possibilities for creating festive sounds, from bells to string effects. Try Paul McCartney’s Wonderful Christmastime.
Electric Guitar: Versatile for rock or pop-themed celebrations, especially when played with upbeat rhythms. Try Christmas Time (Don’t Let the Bells End) by The Darkness.

Ensemble Instruments

Brass Band: There’s nothing quite like a full brass band to add some festive spirit to Chritmas events such as carol singing and Christmas concerts. Try Stop the Cavalry by Jonah Lewie.
String Quartet: Perfect for elegant and formal celebrations such as Christmas weddings and Christmas concerts.
Pipes and Drums Band: Used often in military and cultural parades for their majestic and festive sound.

Global and Cultural Instruments

Sitar: Adds an exotic festive feel to Indian celebrations.
Djembe: A West African drum known for its powerful, vibrant rhythms.
Didgeridoo: Creates a unique celebratory sound, often used in Australian festivals.
Pan Flute: Common in South American festivals, with a soothing yet festive tone.

For a truly festive atmosphere, combine a variety of these instruments to create rich textures and dynamic sounds.

Above all enjoy Christmas!