Channel 4 is aiming for a different kind of Christmas magic this year, bringing back “The Piano” for a festive special airing on December 25th at 7:05 PM. While “Strictly” offers glitz and glamour, “The Piano” delivers heartwarming musical performances and the occasional tearjerker story. This 75-minute special, filmed at the rather swanky revamped Battersea Power Station in London, features the return of some favorite performers from Season 2, ready to tickle the ivories with a selection of seasonal tunes.
Claudia Winkleman, seemingly ubiquitous this Christmas, thanks to this, Strictly and The Traitors, returns to host, joined by Mika and Lang Lang. They’ll oversee performances of holiday classics, from “Walking in the Air” to “O Holy Night,” plus a rendition of Joni Mitchell’s ever-melancholy “River,” proving that Christmas isn’t always about unadulterated joy.
Season 2 winner Brad Kella will also be on hand to perform his new single, a smart bit of cross-promotion that gives the show a contemporary edge. But the real draw, as always with “The Piano,” is the unpredictable nature of the performances. Will there be a show-stopping rendition of “Jingle Bells?” A surprisingly soulful take on “Silent Night?” The beauty of the show lies in its unexpected moments, the genuine emotion of the musicians, and the reactions of the unsuspecting public who happen upon these impromptu concerts.
And as if the amateur performances weren’t enough, Mika and Lang Lang are also treating viewers to a duet of a Beatles classic. The suspense is almost unbearable. Almost.
Tune in to Channel 4 on Wednesday, December 25th at 7:05 PM to find out.
