Making a date with festive music

Bourne founder, Fran, and her bassoon are Christmas concert-ready!

What could be more joyfully uplifting and guaranteed to get us into the festive spirit than a Christmas concert?

For Fran, a lifelong musician who was Bourne to Play, Christmas has always been marked by a glittering orchestra performance, full of sparkle and seasonal magic. Through our friendship, Michelle has rediscovered the sheer joy of singing along - mostly tunefully! - to some festive tunes.

If you’re a Christmas concert fan, what’s your go-to? Is it the timeless beauty of a carol service in a candlelit church? The grandeur of an orchestra performing seasonal classics? Or maybe your tradition is simpler: popping on a festive playlist while decorating the tree and belting out the tunes as you go. Whatever your style, there’s something about music that makes the season feel complete.

And if you’ve forgotten just how good that feels, make a date this Christmas! Here’s a little science to inspire you: singing releases endorphins, those feel-good hormones that boost mood and reduce stress. It also helps regulate breathing and can even lower blood pressure. So, joining in with “Hark! The Herald Angels Sing” isn’t just fun - it’s good for your health!

It really is the most wonderful time of the year and whatever your plans over the festive season, make a date with a carol service, a Christmas concert or even a festive singalong at home… and amid the hustle and bustle, take the time to enjoy the simplest of things in life.

With love,
Fran & Michelle 💕

P.S. If you’re looking for inspiration, Fran’s orchestra will be performing at Buckland Community Centre in Portsmouth on Sunday 14 December - a perfect way to start your season on a high note!