Continuously serving Kosciusko County since 1854
There's no snow. The temperature is well above average. The country was jolted with the events of Sept. 11, and we're now involved in a war on terrorism.
It may be difficult to feel the Christmas spirit, but seasonal music and videos may help some people get into the swing of things.
Religious and secular Christmas music has long been a sign of the season. Although it may start too early for some people, Christmas music is heard throughout many stores. Traditional Christmas hymns are available in a wide variety of tape and CD recordings; others may be on some old records people enjoy listening to.
During the 20th century, secular and pop music was added to Christmas favorites. Among them was "White Christmas" by Irving Berlin, who wrote it for the movie "Holiday Inn." The song was sung and made famous by Bing Crosby and remains the No. 1 Christmas hit. On the lighter side are songs like "Grandma Got Run Over by a Reindeer."
Today, there are many Christmas tapes and CDs available, depending upon personal preferences. Collections of Christmas songs are seen everywhere. One CD collection contains traditional music on one CD, pop on the other. A person's favorite artist may have individual tapes and CDs featuring Christmas music, including pop performers like Destiny's Child, Mariah Carey, N' Sync, Kenny G, Elton John and Barbara Streisand, and classical performers like the Three Tenors and Charlotte Church.
On the classical side, selections from Handel's "Messiah" top the all-time favorite list. If a person is unable to see one of the area presentations, there are recordings available. If classical music combined with a little light rock fits a person's style, "The Young Messiah" fits the bill. Originally, live performances were presented throughout the United States; it may now be seen on video (available through some Christian bookstores by special order).
Children look forward to Christmas, perhaps even more than adults. Many children grow up with now-classic songs such as "Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer," "All I Want for Christmas Is My Two Front Teeth" and many more. And there's also "The Nutcracker Suite," available in tape, CD, VHS and DVD. Mattel, manufacturer of the Barbie doll line, has even gotten into the act with dolls depicting the various characters of "The Nutcracker."
Videos abound for everyone's pleasure. The classics, "White Christmas," "A Wonderful Life," etc., are available on VHS and DVD. For the younger crowd, there's Dr. Seuss' "The Grinch Who Stole Christmas" and a multitude of cartoons featuring Santa, Rudolph, Charlie Brown and many others.
Most homes have a radio and TV, which makes Christmas music and movies readily available to young and old and everyone in between. Try it; you'll like it!
