By way of introduction, I am a musician… a trained classical vocalist who is now the most over qualified bedtime singer around. Though I’m not performing in concert halls or cutting new albums, my musical training has taught me a few things about running a house.  Here are a some ways I use music in my home: 

• Rise and Shine. Wake children up with cheerful music to help set a happy tone for the day.
• Chore Time. Turn music such as Flight of the Bumblebee on when kids are doing their chores… kids tend to clean quicker with fast tempo music. This also exposes them to new types of music.
• Worship. Welcome in the Sabbath with inspiring and uplifting music.
• Celebrating Holidays. Feature music for each holiday.  Crooners love songs for Valentines Day, Marches for Veterans Day, Patriotic for Fourth of July, Olympic Fanfares for athletic events, Irish music for St. Paddy’s Day, you get the idea.
• Welcoming Guests. Music sets a welcome tone when guests arrive.  Soft instrumental music with a Latin flare is casual and fun for a get together.
• Fun Time. I never miss a chance to dance with my kids.  Whether one on one, or all together with brooms as microphones, music lets us let loose and have fun.
• Days End. Set the tone for bedtime with calming nature music, lullabies or instrumental preludes.

With careful attention, the music that enters our homes can help us build loving families, set a calming ambiance, and inspire all who enter.