There’s something about the holidays that pulls us closer to what feels essential. The world goes a little quieter, lights go a little warmer, and suddenly the things that nourish us — beauty, presence, creativity, connection — feel not optional, but necessary.
Inside Obbligato Music’s modern piano atelier, I’m reminded daily that music is necessary because it keeps us rooted in our humanity. It steadies children, softens adults, and brings a sense of wonder that we tend to lose in the rush of everyday life.
For kids, music is necessary because it gives them a place to explore with their whole bodies. In Piano Playground, everything begins with movement — bouncing, tapping, settling, stretching — until the moment they place their hands on the keys and something bright opens in them. Their attention sharpens. Their confidence flickers to life. They discover that music is not performance; it’s play.
For adults, music is necessary because it brings us back to ourselves. In Key Club, I watch adult beginners and returning pianists reclaim something they thought they had lost: spaciousness. Curiosity. Permission. In a season filled with errands and obligations, music becomes a sanctuary.
During the holidays, many families ask how they can create a warm, inviting piano corner at home — whether for their child, for themselves, or as a meaningful gift that lasts beyond December. A piano is a beautiful start, but the atmosphere matters just as much as the instrument.
And this year, I’m adding something to the studio that I absolutely love:
A Cozy Winter Lamp for Piano Practice
(With a built-in side table for your tea — safely not on the piano)
One piece I’m especially excited about this season is a green glass arc floor lampth a little marble side table built in. The light is warm and atmospheric — the kind that makes you want to sit, breathe, and linger at the keys a little longer.
And the table? A small but delightful gift: the perfect place to keep your tea or warm drink close by without ever risking a spill on your piano.
It’s beautiful, functional, and cozy. Exactly the kind of winter touch that transforms a practice space into a ritual.
This is what I’madding to the studio this winter!
This is the kind of holiday gift that feels intentional: something that supports music-making, creates mood, and turns a quiet corner into a place you want to return to again and again.
Add a Christmas Book and a Mug, and You’ve Built a Ritual
If you’re building your own cozy holiday practice corner, two small additions make the moment feel complete:
A few of my favorite Christmas piano books — I especially love Christmas Enchantments, Book One by Jeanne Yeager for its warm, atmospheric arrangements. And in the studio, the Charlie Brown Christmas collections have been tried-and-true favorites for years. The Easy Piano version is perfect for late elementary to early intermediate players who want something nostalgic and expressive, and the 5-Finger Piano version is wonderful for brand-new players who want to enjoy those classic Guaraldi melodies right away. Together they make a little December library full of warmth and joy.
Yeager Link: Jeanine Yeager: Christmas Enchantments
5 Finger Piano Link: Charlie Brown 5-finger Piano
Easy Piano Link: Charlie Brown Easy Piano
A weighted stoneware mug
And of course, a beautiful stoneware mug makes the whole ritual feel complete. I love this reactive-glaze mug in soft green and misty blue — it has a calm, handcrafted feel and looks beautiful resting on the lamp’s wood side table. It’s weighty, elegant, and perfect for keeping tea or cocoa close by while you play (and safely off the piano).
Mug link: TaoTaojarvie ceramic mug
Light.
Music.
Tea.
A few familiar holiday notes.
That’s all you need for a meaningful winter ritual.
And if you’re preparing a piano corner from scratch, I keep a small curated list of beginner pianos I trust — including three of the models we use every day in the atelier. They’re reliable, beautiful instruments that fit naturally into a home and support joyful early practice.
Our curated list of beginner pianos
Music Helps Us Live
As a pianist and teacher in Arlington, VA and Potomac Shores, I’ve learned that families don’t come to me only for piano lessons. They come for belonging. For beauty. For a moment that feels slow and human. And music — especially in seasons like these — makes room for that.
This series, Music Is Necessary, will be home to reflections, studio notes, cozy recommendations, and the small philosophies that shape our approach inside the atelier. Part teaching, part artistry, part lifestyle.
Because music isn’t something we add on when life allows.
It’s something that helps us live.
If you’re curious about bringing more music into your home this winter, you’re always welcome to explore:
Piano Playground — play-centered group piano for kids
Key Club — a modern, low-pressure community for adult beginners
Or join our seasonal newsletter for curated playlists, gift ideas, and quiet inspiration
Here, music is necessary — and there’s room for you.
Affiliate Disclosure
This post contains affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you choose to make a purchase. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. I only recommend items I love, use, or plan to bring into the atelier.