A “note” about Christmas
Away in a Manger, Jingle Bells, Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas, Silent Night, O Come All Ye Faithful, I Saw Mommy Kissing Santa Claus. When I reflect on Christmases past, some of my fondest memories are anchored by those well loved Christmas carols. Not just hearing them, but sharing them.
As a very young child I was fortunate enough to be a part of a musical family who, after Christmas dinner, would pull guitars, mandolin, banjo, harmonica, and even a trumpet out of their cases to join the piano and a room full of voices in boisterous celebration of the season. The joy on the faces of my grandparents was immeasurable and something I will always remember.
Once school aged, I joined my family in the church folk choir and since my father was the guitarist, we would do much practicing at home in between official practices. Christmas carols filled our home for weeks before the big day. Those times, huddled around one book at the piano were moments that I treasure. Between Christmas party and nursing home performances, school concerts and Santa appearances our family was always busy practicing and performing around the holidays and it made those last weeks before Christmas special and exciting.
Music is still a huge part of the holiday preparation and celebration for me. My church’s children’s choir traditionally leads the music for Christmas Eve Mass and I enjoy helping the school with their concert. At this time of year I also hold recitals for my students. They have a chance to celebrate their hard work and this special time of year. My holiday joy is thus compounded by the fact that my own children and students are sharing the gift of music with their families and friends. I am so very proud of them all.
As the Christmas season unfolds I encourage you to share your gifts with those around you whether they are musical in nature or not. It is in giving that we truly feel the Christmas spirit and create lasting memories.
A very Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to you and yours!