Want to see who can sing it louder?
My dad has a mischievous glint in his eye as he loads the roll for Danny Boy into our 15-year-old player piano. It’s 1989. I’ve just joined the choir at my middle school in Portsmouth, Rhode Island, and I’m absolutely certain I’m destined to be the next great Broadway star—belting the highest, longest notes of anyone… even longer than Barbra Streisand.
The big moment comes in the refrain of the first verse: “It’s I’ll be… (high note) here!!! In sunshine or in shadow.” The living room walls vibrate like a thunder sheet in a radio drama foley booth.
This was a regular occurrence in my family. My dad—who has a gorgeous, booming baritone—could out-sing anyone I knew, and I wanted to sound just like him. Family singalongs happened everywhere: in the living room, while watching classic musicals on VHS, and in the car, where we played the original cast recordings of The Phantom of the Opera or Oliver! for the hundredth time. It was fun, it was freeing, and it brought us closer together.
So what is so great about singing? And why do we willingly embarrass ourselves at karaoke bars?
For one, singing has real health benefits. It teaches us to breathe more deeply and engage muscles we otherwise ignore. Mentally, it’s a powerful form of emotional expression. Ever felt completely wrung out after pouring your heart into “Love Is a Battlefield”? Or instantly lighter after singing “Rainbow Connection”?
During the holidays, singing becomes an even richer social ritual. Caroling and choirs are woven into so many seasonal traditions. Group singing builds connection and strengthens relationships—unless, of course, you’re the one assigned to belt “FIVE GOLD RINGS” at a truly unreasonable volume.
For me, singing is all of that and so much more. Finding my voice helped me navigate the awkward years of changing schools and moving to new cities. It helped me express myself and opened the door to an entirely new world of performing. I saw how music could comfort people in pain or grief. Ultimately, it led me into the career that brought me to where I am today. And honestly? It’s just plain fun to step into the shoes of characters like Mother in Ragtime or Elphaba in Wicked.
This holiday season, I invite you to find your voice. If you see an ad for a Messiah sing-along, go. Say yes to your neighborhood caroling party. And—oh, fine—sing “Five gold rings” at that inexcusable volume.
And speaking of inexcusable volume… you might be wondering who won that singing contest back in 1989.
Dad. Always Dad.
Join Jennifer Miller Hammel on Saturday, December 20, 7–9 PM for a Classical California Sing-Along Special! Sing favorite carols and selections from Handel’s Messiah with listeners across California and beyond. Tune in to Classical California and celebrate the season in song!
