From Where We Are

The Christmas spirit in songwriting

Reindeers strech across the sky. The trees are covered in white lights. There is giant tree in colorful lights.
The Christmas lights at The Grove (Photo by Charlotte Calmès)

The holiday soundtrack has a formula — even if most of us don’t notice it. USC jazz students unpack the harmonic choices, orchestral influences, and gospel foundations that define Christmas music and give it that unmistakable nostalgic glow.