A Musical Christmas Party

Years ago, my sister-in-law started throwing an adult only musical Christmas party. Each of the guests were required to perform a musical number and the hosts would start the night off with a simple song, maybe a little guitar or piano. This tradition has continued with other in-laws and even we have hosted several musical Christmas parties. Let me be clear, these are not extra-ordinarily musical crowds, just normal crowds with various backgrounds in music, or not. A few have serious musical training, but most do not. It is an opportunity to make music, something adults don’t often get to do. And for those that are really shy, there is an out. The invitation says, “Please come prepared to share a musical number or pick a carol for all to sing.” I’ve been to lots of these parties and they are always fun and interesting and people always surprise me. Some of my favorite performances: In NY, one couple would do a very New York-y number, he would read things he’d overheard from shoppers on 5th avenue on his daily commute to work while she played background music on the piano. Another couple changed the words to familiar Christmas songs inserting jabs at the host and hostess. Another couple brought some kind of lap harp, an instrument their grandmother played every Christmas. Another played guitar and sang old-fashioned carols like Good King Wenceslas. A few tips if you decide to host such a party: If you don’t have enough musical numbers to fill the time you want, alternate the performances with group caroling and make sure there is someone that can play the piano for last minute group song requests. Cocktail party foods work great at this kind of party. Although not necessary, every party we’ve attended (or hosted) the hosts send the guests home with a fun and sometimes whimsical gift. Like a pineapple tied with a pretty bow, or a Christmas mix from the hosts personal favorites, or a bottle of sparkling cider.

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