‘Tis the season! Here we are, when families and friends get together. Is it always rosy? No. But there are ways to ease up the tension. Music could be one of them.
I advise my students to chose a moment in the celebration to set a little concert for the people assembled. If they play, why not have a recital of sorts during the holidays? It doesn’t have to be formal (although some of my pupils decide to dress for the occasion, a nice shirt, a pretty dress). The crowd is a safe one. They are willing to listen and applaud your work. They’ll help you make the moment special.
You don’t have to play the latest and most difficult piece you’ve got either. As a matter of fact, it’s much better if you play something you really know well, a sure-fire tune you’re confident about. It’ll ease your nervousness and allow you to “perform” by having eye contact with the crowd, smile and move your body as the inspiration takes you.
It goes without saying that it’s better not to make it too long. You can improvise, if you play jazz for example, but no need to overdo it. However, if you opt to play some Christmas songs, you have to make sure it’s not too short either. Jingle bells is not just one verse, for example, it has at least 2 verses that can be found on the internet. You can even print some pages for people to sing along. If you don’t have a printer, no worries, just repeat the same verse 2 or even three times. Warn the crowd before you do that, though. Oh, and take it slow! Chances are, once you’ll be ready to play, you’ll be a little excited. Good! But what it means is that you won’t be able to tell if you go a bit too fast. So, right before you give the tempo, slow it down a touch, not a lot but enough to give you a buffer. You probably will be right on the money.
Music is a lot of fun. It’s perfect for family gathering. It brings a smile to people’s face and helps them bond. Also, while someone is playing, there are less chance that they argue about anything: they’re listening, or singing. It can be the oil for a smooth and pleasant holiday.
Now, having said that, if you don’t want to perform, no need to force it. There is always next year.
