If you enjoyed our first list of holiday music ideas, here are five more to keep the inspiration going. December is a time filled with excitement, but it can also be challenging to keep students focused. With the right approach, it’s possible to turn this season into one of the most rewarding periods of the musical year.
These activities are designed to encourage creativity, reinforce musical fundamentals, and bring joy into both the teaching studio and the home. Whether you’re guiding students in lessons or helping your child practice, these ideas will help string players stay engaged, motivated, and musically curious throughout the holidays.
🎵 1. Create-a-Carol Composition Project
One of the most powerful ways to deepen a student’s understanding of music is to invite them to create their own. A "Create-a-Carol" project allows students to express themselves while building key theory and composition skills. Younger students might enjoy rewriting lyrics to a familiar holiday song such as Deck the Halls or We Wish You a Merry Christmas. More advanced players can compose original melodies, short duets, or variations on seasonal themes.
Teachers can support students by providing blank staff paper or recommending simple music notation apps. Parents can encourage creativity at home by listening to early drafts or helping record the final product. This project is an excellent way to combine holiday excitement with meaningful musical learning. It can also be a highlight of a winter recital or a treasured video for family and friends.
🧦 2. “Stuff the Stocking” with Scales
Practicing scales is essential for developing intonation, technique, and tone quality. During the holidays, teachers and parents can turn this routine into a fun seasonal game by introducing a stocking-themed reward system. Hang a decorative stocking in the studio or practice space and invite students to "stuff" it each time they complete a scale with solid intonation and confident rhythm.
Each successful attempt earns a small reward, such as a music-themed sticker, a holiday note card, or a piece of candy. To deepen the learning, consider adding bonus challenges like naming the scale’s key signature, playing it with a drone tone, or using different bowing patterns. This activity makes repetition feel rewarding and festive while supporting technical progress.
👂 3. Holiday Bow Hold Decorating Contest
A good bow hold is one of the most important fundamentals for string players. To make this exercise more enjoyable, invite students to decorate clothespins, foam shapes, or bow hold aids with holiday characters such as snowmen, reindeer, or stars. These decorated aids can be used in bow hold warmups and posture checks during lessons or home practice.
At the end of the month, teachers or parents can vote on categories like “most creative design” or “best bow hold form.” This is especially helpful for younger students who are still developing hand positioning, and it turns a serious technical focus into something students look forward to.
🎤 4. Host a Holiday Showcase or Mini Recital
Whether you teach in a private studio or at a school, the holiday season is a perfect time for a relaxed performance event. A small in-person recital with cookies and hot cocoa can feel magical, especially when decorated with twinkling lights or holiday themes. If in-person gatherings aren’t possible, video recordings can be compiled into a virtual concert playlist to share with family and friends.
Encourage students to perform a holiday-themed piece they’ve learned or create small ensembles to foster collaboration. Parents can help by setting up a cozy performance space at home or assisting with filming. These events build confidence, celebrate progress, and allow students to connect with others through the joy of performance.
🎻 5. Explore Shar Music’s Holiday Sheet Music Library
Shar Music offers a wide selection of holiday sheet music for violin, viola, cello, and bass at all playing levels. Teachers can introduce students to new pieces during lessons and allow them to choose a holiday favorite to learn over the break. Parents can browse the catalog with their child to find music that matches their interests and abilities.
This is also a great opportunity to teach students about the role of string instruments in holiday music traditions. Whether it’s a string quartet arrangement of Silent Night or a solo version of Carol of the Bells, these pieces help students feel part of a larger musical story. The exploration of seasonal music strengthens sight-reading, expressiveness, and cultural understanding.
Explore our sheet music below.
🎯 Final Thoughts for Parents and Teachers
Holiday learning doesn’t have to feel like a chore. In fact, this season is full of chances to make music more personal, joyful, and meaningful. These activities invite students to explore creativity, refine their skills, and share their love of music with others. Whether practiced at home or supported through lessons, they offer a balance of fun and focus that keeps progress moving forward.
By working together, parents and teachers can make sure that music remains a joyful part of the holiday experience. These small moments of connection, discovery, and celebration can make a lasting impact on a young musician’s journey.
