To avoid the pitfalls and landmines associated with politics and modern events, more and more social gatherings circle back to a safer and more entertaining topic: TV. "What are you watching?" has become the modern-day equivalent to "How was your day?" Think back to your conversation with a neighbor; it likely included one or all of the following refrains:
You've gotta check this out!
Have you seen that show?
Are you caught up on the season?
Can I speak freely?
I am not a heavy TV watcher - but Suits, Ozark, and Ted Lasso changed everything. It has become my nightly ritual. As the house goes quiet, I seek something out that allows my mind and body to quiet itself and rest. Or, as my wife says - "Leave Dad alone - he is done with us for today."
And I'm not alone in wanting to be alone.
Even my more thoughtful, literary, intellectual-type neighbors can't hide their enthusiasm for the latest season of whatever. It makes sense. The world seems bleak, so we're looking for an escape. Maybe you're a fan of The Bear or Succession. Maybe action-adventure is more your jam, and you are watching Reacher or The Night Agent. Or, perhaps you are part of one of the fastest-growing audiences in America - people watching the Hallmark Channel.
Yes, the Hallmark Channel!
According to a recent article in the New York Times, more people are watching the Hallmark channel than CNN. The world needs love, and Hallmark is cashing in.
Yes, the network of snow-kissed towns, impossibly attractive neighbors, and overworked city executives rediscovering the true meaning of life in flannel. As the world fills with more and more anger, Hallmark has become our metaphorical fireplace and cup of warm cocoa.
But why?
Let's be honest—Hallmark's is not known for its unexpected plot twists. No matter the unpredictability of real life, you can count on Hallmark to deliver a plot like this: Person A hates Christmas. Person B loves Christmas. They are forced to interact. A minor misunderstanding occurs. Cue snow, a perfectly timed kiss, and a heartfelt monologue about "what really matters." Roll credits.
It's the cinematic equivalent of comfort food: no surprises, no stress, just warmth.
Meanwhile, in the real world, everything feels like the opposite of a Hallmark movie. The weather is crazy, California is on fire, and most of us don't have an attractive innkeeper offering life advice over gingerbread cookies. This stark contrast between reality and Hallmark's fantasy explains its meteoric rise in popularity. We crave simplicity, predictability, and a heaping serving of warmth.
As music educators, we have a unique opportunity to provide this comfort through our repertoire choices. Just as a Hallmark movie creates a sense of warmth and predictability, the music we select can create a similar sensation in our classrooms. Could simplicity, predictability, and warmth act as a gravitational pull for our students? Like a Hallmark movie, the music plays an oversized role in creating this sensation.
While we live in an age of music innovation - dissonance and melodic complexities are embraced as we explore new and ever-evolving sounds and compositional styles. It is impressive - but students also need the classics—pieces with big melodies, predictable structures, and just enough drama to make the melodic resolution enjoyable.
Think about it. You hand a group of teenagers a piece like Holst's First Suite in E-flat or Dvořák's New World Symphony, and they're all in. Why? Much like a Hallmark movie, these pieces follow a formula that works. They're not trying to reinvent the wheel; they're leaning into what people love: lush harmonies, sweeping melodies, and a sense of resolution that leaves you feeling better than when you started.
Meanwhile, as directors, we try to introduce them to cutting-edge repertoire with complex melodies and abundant dissonance—the musical equivalent of a gritty indie film—and they're like, "Cool… but can we play Clair de Lune or Variations on Korean Folk Song instead?"
I celebrate innovation, but in today's environment, kids may also need music that is timeless, comforting, and makes them feel good.
The parallels between Hallmark viewers and music students don't stop there. Consider the themes. Hallmark movies celebrate community, tradition, and connection—all things that resonate deeply with students who play in ensembles. When you're part of a band or orchestra, you're part of something bigger than yourself, working together toward a common goal. It's like the final scene in every Hallmark movie, where everyone gathers, conflict-free, celebrating one another as the beautiful music plays.
It's true that some may ridicule Hallmark movies as simple, predictable, and overly sentimental. However, many of these same critics would find beauty and value in Grainger's Irish Tune from County Derry. It's simple, predictable, and sentimental, yes, but it's also deeply moving and evocative.
We could all use a little more of that in our lives, both in our movies and in our music.
Have a great week!
Scott