I want to "perform" for my family on Christmas... singing and playing piano. How should I go about it?

I'd really like to get a little mic to hook up, but I'd feel really... well... concieted, I guess, or showy. But if I don't, I won't really be heard due to the sound of the piano. I am 24, and sing very well. I have performed numerous times in high school, & my voice has developed since then. I now sing in the church choir and on the sorship team, and have a solo in the Christmas play. I have been given some amazing compliments, and I feel very confident. My relatives don't know what I'm capable of, since they have never had a chance to hear me sing anywhere. Is this even an appropriate suggestion? Or is it kind of cocky? I was just going to bring my keyboard, (maybe a mic) and set up and sing in the background as things are going on. I don't want to make a big thing of it, but I want them to hear me. What do you think? Should I get a mic, or no? If so, where can I buy a cheap one that will work well enough, and what kind? Do they make them with a little stand?? Thanks!

You should definitely do this. It's kind of old school and gets back to the roots of what the holidays are about...gathering with family to give thanks. However, I don't think you should do it in the background or with a mic.

I'm picturing this turning into a Saturday Night Live skit. Or it having some weird lounge vibe. Just set up in a convenient spot and ask people to gather if they'd like, because you'd want to sing some Christmas music for them. No further explanation is necessary. I'm sure your relatives, especially the older ones, will absolutely love it.

Do a couple songs and see how people are receiving them. If everyone looks happy and not awkward and uncomfortable, do some more. Or suggest picking up after dinner.

No need to feel conceded of showy. Most people can't sing and would love to be able to. The next best thing is a relative with talent.

Cheers!

If you just want to play and sing softly in the background, you shouldn't need a microphone. It will probably better accepted if it's quiet and casual and not so much like a concert.

you could always pre record your singing/playing somehow and then play it back this way your nerves won't stop you from playing your best, and you can get it just right xx

*** there are little mikes that you can clip onto your clothes ...surely you have seen them on
tv ......... btw, where is this place where the "things are going on"? If it is at someone's home, surely you will not need a mike and all the sound equipment that goes with it ..... but if it is in a larger banquet hall, maybe so .. if if is a small hall, maybe not ..... do not underestimate how far sound carries ....er.....unless you are afraid people might be talking in the background (never mind, it's Christmas !!)

*** these family members live a long distance out of town? you did not say ....but I am assuming that is the reason they did not come to hear you all that time

*** I don't think it appropriate to sing in the background at a such family function ~ it will be a new experience for them to hear you and it would be upsetting for them not to give you their full attention ..... after all, you are obviously one of the "children" of the family, and the elders should have love and respect for you and your talents, and be willing and happy to take time from their partying to listen to *your* part of the party...

*therefore* ......I would make myself a little program, practise it to a fare-thee-well and time it .... then ask the party-giver to make you a time slot so you can present your program at a certain point when someone in charge of events can get everyone to settle down in a ciomfortable spot and enjoy your Christmas music ...

**you could tie decorations onto your keyboard to make it look festive

Merry Christmas

I hope you all
have a
lovely time !!