Echoing the success of the first "Mark Hayes for the Intermediate Pianist," a collection of hymn settings, is this new collection of Christmas carols just in time for the Advent and Christmas season. Hayes has written creative, fresh settings of familiar carols that sound hard but are easily played by intermediate and advanced players alike. Special attention is given to smaller-handed pianists…no excessive use of octaves, no large leaps or chords, and thinner but satisfying harmonic textures. However, the trademark Hayes harmonies, modulations and embellishments are still there. Each arrangement is three minutes or shorter, making them perfect for use in services where timing is a consideration.