As the days grow shorter and the air turns crisp, there’s a natural shift that happens in every musician’s year. The holidays aren’t just a season—they’re a feeling that comes alive through the songs we play and the people we share them with. At Granby Music, this is one of our favorite times of year.
November is when we begin preparing students and our community for the musical side of the season. Whether someone is learning their first carol or returning to a piece they’ve loved since childhood, the goal is the same: to make music part of our celebrations again.
The violin and mandolin have a special way of bringing warmth to traditional Christmas melodies. Silent Night takes on a tender glow when played with bow and tremolo. What Child Is This and Greensleeves share that haunting minor tone that feels timeless and ancient. God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen, The First Noel, and O Come All Ye Faithful all shine in ensemble form, weaving harmony and melody together the way only strings can.
Our approach is simple and joyful. We start by making a list of songs each student would like to learn. We gather sheet music and arrangements, then present them in private lessons as well as in our group classes—the Mandolin Group on Mondays and the Celtic Group on Thursdays. These sessions are where the spirit of the season really takes root, with everyone learning from one another and finding their own voice in the mix.
We’re also excited to share our music beyond the studio.
- On November 30th, we’ll bring Christmas music to Kellogg Hall, filling the room with the sound of violins, mandolins, and voices raised in harmony.
- On December 6th, we’ll join the Song & Story Swap in Amherst, where local musicians and storytellers gather to share the spirit of the season.
Holiday music reminds us why we play in the first place—to connect, to reflect, and to bring light when the days grow dark. Whether you’re part of our groups or just beginning your musical journey, this is a wonderful time to start.
