So far, the sweetest, warmest, and brightest moments of this holiday season have taken place at the piano. Helping a student play a carol he or she loves and witnessing the moment of connection – when the music comes into the hands and heart and mind – is delicious fun, and a great privilege.

All these songs, too: they’re a gift from those who came before us. It doesn’t really matter if you believe that a baby was born in a manger or that shepherds looked up and saw a bright star and wise men followed it to the child. It doesn’t matter if Wenceslas *really ventured out into the snowy night to feed a poor stranger. It definitely doesn’t matter if you know all the reindeer names or can get around the physics of a fat man sliding down your chimney.

What matters is wonder, charity, and warmth. What matters is enduring melodies endure that live in us and will live in those who follow us. And certainly the way we feel when we sing or play these songs: that matters a lot.

Let’s keep playing and singing them.

Let’s make this a musical, songful holiday!

(PS – You might be wondering about those blue sticky notes on the piano. I placed them there so that one of my most beloved students could find her way easily and pleasurably as she learns the “map” of the keyboard. Whatever stage you’re in, there’s a way to play music RIGHT NOW: that’s one of my most deeply-held values as a teacher. If you want to play – really play – at last, get in touch and we’ll make 2018 your most musical year so far! Kate@katechadbourne.com)