The Sounds of Celebration

Written by: Karen Wallace
December 2, 2007

There is nothing better than hearing the sound of laughter and happy conversation when in the company of those we love.

And during the festive season, we’re bound to have a few moments of time with our family and dear friends. Maybe even large dollops of time to spend in laughter and happy conversation.

enjoying the sounds of celebration

I have realised that often the other sounds when we’re celebrating are sometimes a last minute, that-will-do sort of thing. I’m talking about the music - whether it is in the background or ramped up real loud and inviting us to get up a move.

And so this year I decided to be a little more proactive about what will be playing during Christmas Day in this house, and during all those other moments when music is vitally necessary (in my book).

You know the times. When you’re cleaning house, it’s great to have some music to get you moving, something to sing along to so the chores don’t seem like chores. When you’re faced with a pile of gifts to wrap, or a house to decorate, it’s nice to have music to put you in the mood for generosity and the spirit of the season.

There’s the music you put on right before the doorbell rings with the arrival of your dinner party guests. Loud enough to be heard, but not loud enough to discourage conversation and conviviality.

And then, of course, there is also the music you put on right before you collapse on the lounge after a long day fighting Christmas shopping crowds. That music definitely won’t be Christmas Carols - you’ve heard enough of the tinny tunes at the mall, haven’t you?

This month I’d like to offer you a few ideas, a couple of my favourites and a couple of CDs I’d like to see in my stocking this year… and then I’d like YOUR input! Share with us your favourite celebration music - tell us who you love to listen to and why. Help us spread the word about the importance of music to the mood you set in your home, in your car, in your ears.

Peaceful Pachelbel - George AmatinoAfter a long day at the office or shopping, try Pachebel’s Cannon for a soothing flow of sound to wash over you and calm your jangled nerves.

Il Divo Christmas CollectionFor wrapping gifts, decorating the tree and baking Christmas goodies (and certainly for when you’re writing your Christmas cards), I’m putting Il Divo’s Christmas Collection on. There is something about their voices that stirs my blood and makes my heart soar with joy. (This one may also work for the first half of the Christmas Day celebrations, I know it won’t last past lunch in this house - sadly, the kids will make sure of that!)

Michael Buble - Call Me IrresponsibleFor dinner parties, a crooner or two - Michael Buble’s latest is one I’d like to find under the tree on December 25 (hint hint). The newly released 2CD version of Call Me Irresponsible includes a couple of Christmas songs for good measure… what’s not to like?

For when the temperature heats up, you need to move, you need to groove… I’ve gone for two recommendations from father and son… both now on my wishlist.David Campbell - Swing Sessions 2

David Campbell - gotta love that swing in Swing Sessions 2.

Jimmy Barnes - Out In The BlueJimmy Barnes ‘ latest - Out In The Blue released last weekend.

Comments

7 Responses to “The Sounds of Celebration”

  1. MarjorieNo Gravatar on December 2nd, 2007 4:27 pm

    Which of you lovely ladies will I see at Michael Bubles concert???

  2. ChrisNo Gravatar on December 2nd, 2007 8:25 pm

    Pachelbel’s Canon!
    I’ve ALWAYS loved that piece of music. I’ve always said i wanted it played at my funeral.
    But the bride in our world quietly floated down the aisle to her future husband to Pachelebel which just made it more special!
    Sorry Marj won’t be me at Michael Buble. Not a big fan but David Campbell and his more mellow Dad might tempt me!

  3. AnnieNo Gravatar on December 4th, 2007 1:12 pm

    I still go back to the ‘oldies but goodies’ - Ella Fitzgerald and Nat King Cole for soothing music and for more recent can’t go past anything by Bliss.

    Of course I played Deep Purple full blast last Sunday because I could!

  4. AngelaNo Gravatar on December 5th, 2007 2:28 pm

    I just had to stop by to say it’s all your fault, Karen. I couldn’t resist, went out and bought Michael Buble’s “Call Me Irresponsible”. Now I’m singing along, swaying, checking cover notes and reading lyrics instead of the work I should be doing. Thanks for putting a smile on my face.

  5. ChrisNo Gravatar on December 6th, 2007 4:59 pm

    I just don’t get the Michael Buble stuff!!
    Maybe i’m weird!!!

  6. Katherine NolanNo Gravatar on December 7th, 2007 12:54 pm

    Fancy Chris admitting to the world at large that she doesn’t get the “Michael Buble stuff” - she’s just confirmed her wierdness in public!! Her family might have to disown her.

  7. karenNo Gravatar on December 7th, 2007 3:27 pm

    @Marj - are you going to Michael Buble’s concert? Lucky lady!!!

    @Chris - interesting that you dont ‘get’ Michael Buble… even your sister thinks that’s a little weird :)

    @Angela - awww… glad you were inspired to treat yourself while you’re busy shopping for everyone else! My daughter has been saying for months now that CD is what she is getting me for Christmas, so I’m looking forward to it immensely.

    @Annie - I have been looking for Bliss on your recommendation - and plan to order one of their CDs once the Christmas budget-drain is over.

    @Katherine - thanks for visiting and leaving a comment (especially since it was to razz Chris!!) We appreciate you dropping by.

Got something to say?