How soon is too soon to begin playing Christmas music? As a consumer, it always rattles my cage when I see Christmas decorations in stores before Halloween and it seems to get earlier every year! As a musician, I look at playing Christmas music a little differently. I actually have my students begin practicing their pieces in late August. Why you ask? Well, they have several venues that they will be playing and in order for them to be ready with more than one or two pieces, it takes that long. I add a piece or two to their regular repertoire, so it’s not overwhelming. It’s also a great time to encourage duets. By doing this, they will have at least 4 or 5 new pieces by December. It’s a win-win.
Bober, Melody-Grand Duets for Christmas Book 1