Auld Lang Syne - a Musical Moment

Last week in our SQUILT Musical Moment, we spent time with a melody many of us recognize instantly—even if we don’t always stop to think about what it means.

Auld Lang Syne is one of those rare pieces of music that seems to belong to everyone. It’s sung at the close of the year, at graduations, at farewells, and at moments when one chapter is ending and another is about to begin.

It is also a perfect song to share with your children - to teach them that music can be about so much, and in this case it’s about remembering.

The title comes from a Scots phrase that can be loosely translated as “old long since”—a way of talking about times gone by, shared experiences, and friendships that have shaped us. When we sing this song, we’re not simply marking time; we’re honoring it.

Why This Song Matters for Students

From a music appreciation perspective, Auld Lang Syne is a valuable piece to explore with children because it invites reflection without being overly complex. The melody is simple and singable. The mood is gentle, thoughtful, and sincere. Nothing rushes. Nothing demands attention through volume or drama.

Instead, the music teaches us how slowness can carry meaning.

As students listen, they can notice:

• The steady, flowing melody

• The calm, almost circular feeling of the tune

• The sense of togetherness the music creates

This is music that works best when shared. It’s often sung in a group, reminding us that memory is something we hold collectively, not just individually.

A Moment for Reflection

One of the benefits of including Auld Lang Syne in your music studies is that it naturally opens the door to conversation.

You might ask:

• Why do people sing this song at significant moments?

• How does the music make you feel?

• What kinds of memories does this melody bring to mind?

These are gentle questions, but they build essential listening and thinking skills. Music becomes more than sound—it becomes a way to connect past, present, and future.

Music as a Marker of Time

In many respects, Auld Lang Syne underscores why music has always been part of human life. Long before calendars and clocks, music helped people mark significant moments. It helped them remember, celebrate, and say goodbye with care.

That’s a powerful lesson for students: music doesn’t just decorate our lives. It helps us understand them.

As we move forward—into new lessons, new listening, and discoveries—we carry these musical moments with us. And sometimes, the simplest melodies are the ones that stay the longest.

At SQUILT we speciailize in teaching children (and families!) about great music. We explore music from so many angles - making it fun and meaningful for kids.  Check out our LIVE! lessons and we can start learning together!