The chimes that start off Mariah Carey’s “All I Want For Christmas Is You” are instantly recognizable. Over the years, the tune has cemented itself as a Christmas season staple.
But what is it about Christmas music that is so appealing?
“Christmas music at this time of year helps a lot of us to get in the spirit of the season,” said Emily Sung, an assistant professor at the Thornton School of Music. “Some of the music that is really associated with the sounds of the holiday can help people feel like it’s time to celebrate.”
On campus, students are feeling the holiday spirit even as they prepare for a busy week of finals. Some are also feeling nostalgic, as memories of holidays past resurface when they listen to their favorite Christmas songs.
“My favorite Christmas song is ‘Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree,’ because it’s just like a classic,” said Colby Kurasaki, a freshman business administration major. “I grew up playing the piano, and that was the first Christmas song I learned to play.”
For other students, the holiday season is a romantic time.
“I just feel like when it’s cold outside...I get it really in, like the romance mood,” said Alexandra Kirchner, a junior screen writing major, whose holiday favorites include “Last Christmas” by Wham!
And students, of course, did not leave the unofficial Queen of Christmas out of the conversation.
“I know some people have said that it’s a bit overplayed, but I’ve got to go with Mariah Carey ‘All I want for Christmas is you’,” said Tripp Carrington, a junior English major. “I love that song. Every time it comes on, I get a little excited.”