How to Play “Up on the Housetop” by Benjamin Hanby on Piano (3 Levels, Free)
Learn the festive classic Up on the Housetop on piano: listen to the beginner, easy and intermediate versions, then play the level of your choice with falling notes, right in your browser.
Listen and play: 3 levels
Beginner
Right hand
Easy
Both hands · simple
Intermediate
Both hands · full
About the piece
Up on the Housetop is a popular Christmas song written by Benjamin Hanby in 1864. It is famous for being one of the first secular Christmas songs to focus on Santa Claus and his reindeer landing on rooftops on Christmas Eve.
It is a joyful and rhythmic melody that is perfect for beginners. The song moves at a lively pace, making it an excellent piece to practice your timing and finger independence on the keyboard.
Which level should you choose?
- Right hand only: the melody alone, focusing on the main theme. Great for learning the sequence of notes.
- Both hands, simple: the left hand adds a single low note to provide a steady bass beat.
- Both hands, full chords: the left hand plays chords that match the harmony of the song, creating a festive, full sound.
Begin with the right hand to get the rhythm down. Once the melody feels natural, adding the simple left hand pattern is the logical next step.
Fingering and hand position
Position your right hand with your thumb (1) on G, 2 on A, 3 on B, 4 on C, and 5 on D. The song starts with the D note using your pinky (5): D D E D B G B, then D E E D B A D, and D D D D E D B A G, followed by B D E E E D D B A D.
Keep your hand relaxed and centered on the G major position. The most important part is the shift from the high D down to the G and A notes, so keep your fingers arched and ready to move smoothly.
Practice tips
- Listen to the full version on the site to internalize the cheerful rhythm.
- Start in Rhythm mode at a slow tempo, such as 50 percent, to ensure you hit every note accurately.
- Focus on one phrase at a time, especially the sections where the notes repeat quickly.
- Keep your eyes on the screen, letting the falling notes guide your fingers rather than looking at your hands.
Learn it step by step
To master the song, start by practicing the right hand melody in small, manageable segments until you can play them without stopping. Once the melody is fluid, try to coordinate it with the left hand notes at a slow speed. Gradually increase the tempo until you reach the standard 120 bpm, keeping the rhythm steady throughout.
Frequently asked questions
Is Up on the Housetop easy to play on piano?
Yes. It is a beginner friendly piece that sits comfortably within a single hand position, making it perfect for your first holiday songs.
What are the notes of Up on the Housetop?
The main melody starts with D D E D B G B, moving into D E E D B A D, then the bridge with D D D D E D B A G.
Who composed Up on the Housetop?
The song was written by American composer Benjamin Hanby in 1864.
How long does it take to learn Up on the Housetop on piano?
Most beginners can learn the right hand melody in a single practice session of about 20 minutes, with the full version coming together after a few days of practice.
Which fingers do you use for Up on the Housetop?
Place your right hand in the G major position: thumb (1) on G, 2 on A, 3 on B, 4 on C, and 5 on D.
Can I play Up on the Housetop without a piano?
Yes. You can use your computer keyboard, tablet, or any connected MIDI controller on DOLI PIANO for free.
Do I need to read sheet music to play it?
Not at all. The falling notes on the screen indicate exactly when and which key to press, allowing you to start playing immediately.
What should I play after Up on the Housetop?
Try other festive favorites like Jingle Bells or beginner-friendly classics like Ode to Joy.
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