All language subtitles for Chhristmas.in.My.Hearrt.202ON

[beth] gingerbread, gingerbread,
gingerbread house...

Gingerbread, gingerbread,
gingerbread house...

One more time.

Marshmallow, peppermint,
sugarplum pie.

[boy] you're making me hungry.

Well, we're done for the day.
Will this help?

-[boy] bye!
-[door shuts]

oh, mom.

This was one of the best
christmas gifts

you and mom ever got me.

Worked wonders
for my stage fright.

It just doesn't seem
like christmas yet.

Yeah. It will.

But, now, we're due
at the school.

-Right. I'll go get our coats.
-Okay.

[katie] we need a tree.
[sean] uh-huh.

-[katie] when?
-Watch what you're doing there.

-I need another wrench.
-Which one?

Uh, forgot the name.

Um, the wrench with the thingy
on the other side.

-Ratchet. Please?
-[katie] that. Can I have it?

Please can I have the 5/8 wrench
with the ratchet

on the other side,
and can we please get a tree

sometime this actual week
and listen to another station

instead of this, please, oh,
please, dear father?

[sean] how can I say no to that.

-Classical, I presume?
-[katie] my favorite.

[instrumental music]

hey. We're doing this one
in the christmas recital!

Oh, yeah? How's the
recital coming together?

Uh, it's okay. Ms. Lim says
I need help on my technique.

All teachers say that.

Just because you didn't like
your music teachers doesn't--

katie cat, either the music
is in you or it isn't.

Uh-huh. I just want to be
real good, like you.

Come back out here.

This recital's
real important to you, is it?

It's the first one
without ms. Hendricks.

And everyone's
making it extra special,

so I need to get it right.

Okay.

Well, maybe I can
look into getting you

some extra help, like a
tutor or a teacher or something.

-That'd be cool.
-Great. Okay.

And can we go to grandma's, too,
to get mom's old decorations?

You just keep asking
for things, don't you?

Yes, we can.

-Maybe.
-Stop.

[laughs]

-wrench.
-Please?

-Please?
-[laughs]

the kids are really getting
there, and the lineup's all set.

And, tim, I was thinking

maybe you could give a speech
about johannah?

What, me? No, I don't
really do public speaking.

I'm more of a behind the scenes
numbers guy.

Besides, you're head of
the music department now.

Oh, just the interim head.
I'm just filling in

while they find a new head
for the department.

So, what do you say?

Come on, dad. It's the inaugural
year of mom's instrument fund.

What's the worst
that could happen?

Oh. People get bored,
people check their phones,

people forget to donate?
Uh, you know.

Sweetheart, there's a reason
why your mom

was up front on these things.

Remember that year that
she got grumpy greg

to donate three saxophones
to the music department? Yeah.

I'll miss her
for a billion reasons,

but to have this fund
in her memory...

Really feels like
we're continuing her work.

Okay, okay!
I'll write a speech.

Great! Next up,
the silent auction.

Oh.

-It's gonna be great.
-Oh.

[sheila] let me know if you need
anything else.

Hi, beth!

-You look gorgeous.
-Aww, thanks, sheila. You, too.

Oh, I have your gift basket
in the back.

Feel free to file
some music sheets

while sitting there
waiting for me.

Mm-hmm!

All right, let's see...

Excuse me, ma'am?

-Hi.
-Hi.

Uh, I'm here to pick up music
for my daughter katie?

Uh, yeah, sure,
uh, just a moment.

Katie...

Hey. Katie.

Your daughter is
very advanced.

No, I-I just found it online.

Katie said she needed some help
with her technique.

Oh, okay, I see.

I would actually recommend
vivaldi's concerto in a minor.

It has a lot of
scale work in it.

That might be better for her.

Sure, I'll take all the help
I can get.

Classical music's
not really my thing.

-I'm better with country.
-Okay, that's different.

Oh, I take it you're not a fan.

All that "my dog, my truck,
my woman done me wrong?"

doesn't that start to sound
the same after a while?

You know, some people might say
the same thing about classical.

Well, you would be wrong.

Classical has the advantage
of no outdated lyrics.

Oh, but those strings,
they just put you to sleep.

-I play one of those strings.
-[laughs]

you know, maybe you shouldn't be

such a music snob
if you work in a music store.

Well, I don't work here for one,
and for another--

oh, you just walk
into random joints

and you freelance your opinion?

My best friend sheila
owns this joint,

and I do believe
that you started it.

Here you go!

-Sean, hi. Hi.
-Hey. Hey, sheila.

I see you met beth,
my best friend in the world.

Did you get the piece?

Yeah, uh, she set me up.
What do I owe you for it?

[sheila] I'll put it
on your account.

Thank you.

And, um,
merry christmas, best friend.

-Merry christmas.
-Bye, sheila.

[whispers] do you know
who that was? Sean grant.

-[camera shutter clicks]
-[beth] who?

-Country music star.
-Really?

-Yes.
-Seriously?

[sheila] "city girl? Red tail
hawk? Sweet huckleberry?"

mm, maybe that last one?
I don't know.

[sheila]
oh, you are the weirdest.

-So, green dress pants...
-[sean] uh-huh.

Or red dress?
What do you think?

-For the recital.
-Oh...

It's fine.
I'll just ask grandma.

-[sean] sorry, kiddo.
-[doorbell rings]

why don't you put the clothes
away and meet me downstairs

because you are on potato duty.

Okay.

[cell phone vibrating]

[keys clacking]

[sean] katie cat, where are you?

Uh, in here!

Look who made it
to the country!

-[grunting]
-hersh!

Hi, katie! And I still do not
understand why you guys

choose to live out
in the middle of nowhere.

-We like it here!
-And less guests.

[laughs] all right.

Those look like
christmas presents.

No. Those are hanukkah presents.

No, but you can't open them
until the first night.

-When's that?
-Oh, I know, it's, um, tomorrow.

[both] yes!

Wanna scrub some potatoes?

I just got here, and you're
putting me to work?

Oh, I think
she learned that from you.

-Oh, you think, eh?
-Uh-huh.

You, fire up some music,
something good,

something, something country.

Maybe, uh,
some early sean grant.

-Oh.
-Huh?

[chuckles]
and, you, let's, uh,

let's fire up
something in the kitchen.

-Okay. Huh? Huh?
-[katie] no.

-Look at this concentration.
-Stop it.

I've had at most one bar on my
cell phone since I've been here.

My-my boots, they're new,
they're caked in mud.

I can hate the countryside, huh?

Also, you guys don't have a
single recording studio out here

on-on, what, how many acres?

[both] one hundred
and twenty-nine.

And a half.
So, what about horses?

-Horses are okay.
-Oh, great.

Because we're putting you up
in the stables for the night.

No, I got myself a hotel room
in the actual town.

Oh? Well, that sounds
like a good idea to me, hersh,

because every time
I come out here to this ranch,

it seems like it's getting
farther and farther away.

-It is.
-[laughter]

-hey, grandma.
-Hi, baby.

Well, let me
fix you a plate, ruthie.

No, that's all right.

I'm just here
to keep my promise.

Grandma's going
to braid my hair.

Yes, I am. [chuckles]

come on, I got all this new
product. Wait till you see...

Well, you do her hair
and I'll... Finish alone.

Cookies?

Ooh, those look delicious, dad!

Well, thanks! It was bake
or write my speech.

[indistinct singing on radio]

-who is this singing?
-Hmm?

Oh, that's sean grant.

He does christmas music, too?

Oh, just this one.
It was a benefit album.

I ran into him at
sheila's store this afternoon.

-Really?
-Mm.

Oh. That's a rare sighting.

Why is that?

Oh, he keeps to himself
most of the time.

He moved here after his wife
passed away

about three years ago?

His daughter is in your
mom's music program.

She always talked
nice about him.

♪ and every soul on earth
shall ring ♪

♪ on christmas day
on christmas day ♪

♪ and every soul on earth
shall ring on christmas day ♪

he's got a great voice,
doesn't he?

[ruthie] oh, so
how're you feeling?

Uh, I'm excited. And nervous.

It's my first time
performing a solo, so...

Oh!
I remember my first solo.

Oh, we're gonna have to fix your
hair up real special for that.

You got any ideas?
Cornrows? Box braids?

Um... I want to
wear it out...

-Yeah.
-Maybe? [chuckles]

-but...
-But what?

But I think
it should be slicked back.

-It looks more professional.
-More professional?

Did somebody tell you that?

No, but I've seen it
on the social media, so...

I think it's good to stand out.

You be proud of who you are
and what you are.

And no matter
how you wear your hair,

it will be beautiful,
just like you.

[chuckles] yeah.

All right.

♪ we got to get it started ♪

-[katie chuckles]
-knock knock.

[chuckles] I thought you could
use something sweet.

-Thank you.
-Aww, thank you.

You're welcome.

Hey, ruthie,
you, uh, got a minute?

Sure.

-You think about it, okay?
-Okay.

Because whatever you want to do
with your hair,

that's what we're gonna do,
all right?

-All right.
-I'll be right back.

-You two okay in there?
-Oh, we're fine.

Braiding time is bonding time.

She talks, I listen.

Huh. Before you know it,
she'll be braiding her own hair.

Different tools than
what I'm used to working with.

[laughs] I'm sure.

Have you had a chance to talk
with katie about the recital?

She seems a little anxious.

Yeah. I, yeah, actually, I got
that impression earlier.

I think she doesn't want
to just play the part,

she wants to look the part.

Look, it's normal.

Even when she was little,
she noticed the difference

between you and allison.

But now that she's older

she can articulate
her feelings better.

She's getting smarter every day.

-Mm-hm.
-More inquisitive.

More curious...

I don't have the answers.

Of course you don't.

I mean, sometimes you will,
sometimes you won't.

But all you have to do
is keep being katie's dad.

[exhales] yeah.

Oh, this is good.

I know how to make
a good hot chocolate.

[both chuckle]

[ruthie] too many marshmallows,
but that's okay.

-[sean sighs]
-there he is.

How's katie doing?

Looks like you're getting
the hang of things.

Yeah, yeah, it's... It's just
the whole "without allison" part

I'm struggling with.

So, dare I ask?
What's the news?

Can't a guy just sit back
with a cup of hot chocolate,

and chat about the realities
of fatherhood?

How is it by the way?

This is a mountain
of marshmallows.

That's the way we do it
on the ranch.

[hersh chuckles]

all right, man, listen.

The label's really
laying on the pressure.

A lot of pressure.
No more delays.

You got to get back
to nashville,

you got to get in the studio
and record that album.

-What if I can't?
-I've heard that song before.

Everybody has heard
that song before.

What if I refuse to?

W... Eventually you'll be
in breach of contract.

You know, people are forgetting
about you, sean, I...

Your fans are only gonna
stick by the sad

widower part for so long.

Hersh, come on.

I'm starting to feel like you've
run away to west virginia.

What if...

What if I don't have
anything to say?

What if you got
something new to say?

About loss.

About being a dad.

About driving that big old
pickup truck to pta meetings.

[sean chuckles]

I'm just worried that
if you close the door now,

you're not gonna be able
to get through it again later.

[instrumental music]

wow.

-[doorbell rings]
-oh, she's here!

-Who?
-My teacher!

Your what?

[katie] my violin teacher.
The one you texted.

Wait, your violin teacher?
I didn't...

Katie elizabeth grant.
What did you do?

[katie] you said
I could have a teacher.

Who I would find.

Look, we have to be careful.

We can't just give our
address out to anybody.

She's a violin teacher, dad.

Hey, hey, hey, hey, slow down!

Okay, let me answer the door.

-[exhales]
-[knock on door]

-best friend from the music...
-Sean grant.

-And I'm katie.
-[chuckles]

come on in.

[sean] when I grabbed your
number, I didn't realize...

I've been teaching students
in town the past few months.

Sheila let me put up
my contact number.

You've only been teaching
for a few months?

I live in new york city.
I am a professional violinist,

so I've been picking up students
here to cover expenses--

okay, I'm sorry, so you're only
here for the holidays?

[beth] you study music
at bluffside, right?

-How did you know that?
-[katie] yeah.

Johannah hendricks
was my mother.

-No way.
-Way.

-You can call me beth.
-Beth.

Well, in that case...

Welcome to our ranch.

-This is your music room?
-[katie] yup.

It was my mom's favorite room
in the whole house.

Oh, the acoustics aren't the
best because of the windows,

but I figure it's better
to practice with a view

than, you know,
in a sound-proofed studio.

I hope this will be okay?

If you're used to a six by nine
practice room

where the view is a brick wall
and you're lucky

if you can move your bow
or hear yourself

over the tuba next door,
this is, yeah, this is fine.

You live next door to a tubist?

No, that-that's not what I said.

-That must be very annoying.
-Yes, it is.

His name is greg and he's
beginner-intermediate at best.

Huh.

Well, your mother
was a great teacher.

Yeah, and my dad
hates music teachers.

Katie... [sighs]

why don't you go, uh,
clean up the dishes?

-They're clear.
-Okay, then go do your homework.

But I have a violin lesson.

Give us a moment alone?

He'll like you if you're like
ms. Hendricks. She was the best.

[chuckles]

so... You hate music teachers.

I don't hate music teachers.

It's just that I don't believe
that practicing scales

over and over again is a
substitute for musical talent.

That is true,
but practice can make

that talent shine through later.

And you are looking
for someone to teach her, yes?

Yes. Yes, I am,
because that is what she wants.

Here.

And you should know that katie
wired this whole thing up.

I sent the first text,
but I guess that

katie sent the follow-up texts.

All right, so you weren't
the one who...

That, that what?

I actually tried to
turn down the job

because like I said I'm leaving
after the holidays

but you or katie offered me
double my rate to take the job

which is not necessary.

Okay, then,
well, double is fine.

-She is unbelievable.
-[chuckles] and persistent.

Which makes for a really
great student. And musician.

Okay, well, if you teach katie,
there are a few rules.

There are no photographs.
There's no recording.

There's nothing on
social media...

Is there a fourth or...

No.

I would never do
any of those things.

Well, you say that now, but
someone comes sneaking around

asking for a quote,
offering you triple your salary.

It's just important that katie
has a normal life here,

especially after her...

Well, I would never do anything
to jeopardize a young girl,

especially one
that lost her mom.

I just want you to know that.

Okay.

Katie!

You ready for your lesson
with ms. Hendricks?

Yes, finally.

Okay, well, I am changing
the password on my cell phone.

-Cool story, dad.
-[sean] okay.

Let's get started.

[sheila] you're working
as nice in private?Was het

I literally can't say, sheila.

He just wants to
protect his daughter.

Well, that's sweet.

[beth chuckles]

I never thought I'd say it
about someone like him,

but raising, you know, a young
daughter after losing your wife

and being someone that everybody
wants a piece of...

-It must just be...
-Hmm.

-Mm-hmm.
-What?

Beth, am I sensing
a connection?

[chuckles] stop.

I'm taking on one last student

whose father is paying me
very well

which will really help when I
get back to expensive new york.

-Okay. If you say so.
-That's it.

It's not that I wouldn't, he...

Keep going.
This is getting interesting.

-Beth hendricks?
-Linda?

I'll be right back.

-Hi.
-Oh, hi.

Oh. We haven't you since,
since youth orchestra.

Yeah, I must've been 16 or so!

Then they whisked you off
to new york. How's it been?

Oh, must be a different rhythm
to charleston.

Yeah, not so much a rhythm
as a slog, but...

Why, was the fellowship
program no good?

No, no, the-the program
was great!

Rigorous training,
bimonthly showcases

and just really,
really good players.

Since then, it's been auditions
for orchestras, and teaching,

playing parties,
hotel events...

Wait. You wouldn't
happen to be free

this Saturday night, would you?

Why? You having a last
minute wedding, are you?

Actually, I'm in a quartet.

I know it's crazy, but we have
a christmas concert

and our first violin
is pregnant

and her doctor's
put her on bedrest.

We haven't been able
to find a sub.

How's your
here we come a-wassailing?

-It'll be ready by Saturday!
-Fantastic.

Listen, put your number in

and I will text you
the details and charts.

-Thank you, linda.
-Oh! This is going to be great!

-See you soon!
-Yes, it's good to see you.

-[laughs]
-what just happened?

-I got another job.
-What?

[violin music]

[sighs]

[exhales]

[music continues]

want to take a break?

I should probably
keep practicing.

I just want to
show you something.

It'll just take a minute.

Hm? [chuckles]

[tim exhales]

-[guitar strumming]
-[door opens]

don't stop.
Working on something there?

Yeah, I was just dusting it off.

Okay.
Well, gotta start somewhere.

-It wasn't anything.
-Ah, it wasn't anything yet.

Uh, katie keeps asking about
her hanukkah presents.

[both chuckle]

I'm, I'm teaching her
how to make latkes.

You, uh, you gonna
keep writing or...

No. I'll be in in a minute.

All right.

I'll get your apron ready.

[sighs]

look... It's the angel tree
topper mom and I made.

[chuckles]
let's get it on the tree.

[chuckles] your mother saved
every single one

that she was given.

So many of them...

It's almost too hard
to put them all on the tree.

Does it feel like
christmas yet, dad?

I think we have
one more tree to visit.

[hersh] get a good handful.
All right, in the cloth.

That's good, then you squeeze
all the water out.

Squeeze.
There's more than you think.

-Yeah.
-[laughs]

my bubbe taught me this recipe
when I was your age.

-That's good, that's good.
-Okay.

Put the potatoes in the bowl.

Yeah, uh, we gotta
let the starch settle.

All right, and then
we'll pop one of these in.

-Yes! Can I do the frying?
-Ah!

I should probably check my
insurance policy first, right?

Come on, we're in west virginia.

Kid's gotta learn
how to fry at some point.

-Be careful.
-All right.

Here you go.

Okay, careful, careful, careful.

-Oh! Yeah.
-Oh! Nice! Bullseye!

[tim] oh, it's gonna be great
seeing you perform again.

-It's been too long.
-[beth] mm.

I'm sorry for not coming home
more often.

Being here.
It's grounding.

Well, you came back
over the years.

I know, but never for this long,
and just...

I'm sorry that it took this trip
for me to realize

how one-track my life is.

I do love violin. I mean,
this is what I'm made for.

It's just... Sometimes I wonder
if it's enough.

-The angel tree!
-Mm-hmm.

[both chuckle]

what do you say? One for you,
one for me, and one for mom?

[beth] yeah.

[tim chuckles]

[chuckles]

and next stop, hot cider!

-Oh. Yes, please.
-[chuckles]

oh, man, I love hanukkah!

I'm gonna fry
everything from now on.

What's not to love
about it, huh?

Lights, miracles, delicious
food, giving to charity...

-And presents.
-[hersh chuckles]

-the kid is a broken record.
-[laughs]

-okay, go on. I'll clean up.
-Let's go.

[chuckles]

[hersh] don't you usually
have a tree there?

Ask dad. It gets later
every year.

Are these for me?

-Do I get drums, too?
-I got you five of them.

Three cymbals. One for
each night of hanukkah.

-Dad's gonna be so mad.
-Oh, is he ever!

Let's open them all tonight.

So I heard you were talking
to him about singing?

Yeah. Yeah, I'm working on him,
I promise ya.

Can you work on
getting me a tree too?

And maybe my mom's
old decorations?

Sometimes I don't even know
why we brought them here

from nashville.

Hey, so where's my present?

Your present...
I got you a kazoo.

[sean] oh.

A kazoo?
You shouldn't have.

Well, it came free with the kit.

[sighs]

[beth] how's it going
with the fundraiser?

[hayley] I made a list of
instruments and I sent it

off to sheila last night.

I heard. She said she spoke
to the distributor,

and they're all set.

Oh, no.

[sighs] the decorations!
I-I completely forgot.

I told pat I was going to
swing by and grab the garlands

and the holly and I...

-Oh, I can do it.
-Are you sure?

-Yeah.
-I don't want to put you out.

No, it's no problem.

-Thank you, beth!
-Yeah.

[instrumental music]

hi, mom.

♪ come and behold him ♪

♪ born the king of angels ♪

♪ o come ♪

♪ let us adore him ♪

♪ o come let us adore him ♪

♪ o come let us adore ♪

♪ him ♪

♪ christ the lord ♪

ooh!

Well, technically,
you're on point.

But I need you to feel the song!

Just dig a little deeper!

And please,
pay attention to the cutoffs.

I thought you sounded great.

[indistinct murmuring]

pay no attention to that man,

he knows nothing about music.

-I love you, sean!
-[man] hey, sean!

I love you, sean!
[chuckling]

-hey.
-Hi, dear.

Maybe I'm just out of ideas.

No, that's a choice you made.

Truth?

I wouldn't be sitting here
for anything less.

Okay, hersh says it's like,
it's like I've run away.

But, no. No, this place
is good for katie,

being close to you.

I thought, maybe because
this is allison's hometown,

I might find... Inspiration.

Sean.

Honey, how can you say that?

You have been holed up out there
in that ranch of yours

for almost three years now,
like some cursed prince.

You don't go anywhere.
You don't talk to anybody.

You don't do anything.

No wonder you're
feeling uninspired.

Allison wasn't your inspiration
because you found her.

You had to love her.

You can't just be here,
you've got to live here.

Well, what if what I write now
isn't any good?

What if she'd hate it?

What if you're using allison
as some sort of an excuse

not to do the thing
that you were born to do?

What would she think about that?

She wouldn't stand for it.

-You've got that right.
-[chuckles]

and it's okay to miss her.

It's okay to be angry that
she was taken away too soon.

Hmm.

You want my advice,
live your life.

Get out there, explore,
discover something.

Or else...

What was the point
of coming here?

Hmm?

[exhales]

[ruthie] all right.

Everything is
in the storage unit.

What're you gonna hang them on?

Well, I'm about to get a tree,
if you want to join?

No, I'm on my way
down to the rec center.

They post a lot of volunteer
jobs this time of the year.

You're serious about more work?

Yeah. Gives me purpose.

Gotta keep it moving.

-[chuckles]
-[sean] thank you.

You're welcome.

-Have a good time.
-Mm-hmm.

[upbeat music]

♪ jingle bells jingle bells ♪

♪ jingle all the way ♪

hey!

Hi!

-Oh, fancy seeing you here.
-[laughs]

that is a lot of garland.

Oh, it's, um, for the recital.

I may have gone
a little overboard.

-I'll take that for you.
-Thank you.

-What about you?
-I'm here to get a tree.

It's supposed to be
a surprise for katie.

Oh?

Do you mind giving me a hand?

Yeah. Of course.

Must have been a big change for
you two,

yeah. I mean,
I grew up in nashville,

met allison there, thought
I'd spend my whole life there.

The ranch was actually
allison's idea.

She thought it'd be good for us
to have a place to retreat.

I also think it was a way for
katie to be close to her mom.

Yeah.

Uh, katie's grandmother
is ruthie,

she runs bethel grace choir.

Ruthie sampson?

Yeah, yeah, it's actually
how I met your mother

and why I put katie
in the bluffside school.

Have you ever met her?

No, but ruthie and my mom
started a youth program

about ten years ago
when I was in new york.

My mom would send me
links of ruthie's choir.

They were amazing.

-So you like gospel music?
-Of course I do!

It's just country music
that you're weird about.

I grew up playing
classical violin.

Okay, which means
that you are a fiddler.

No. Fiddling's not what I do.

You haven't heard of
any of the greats?

Roy acuff? Johnny gimble?
Texas shorty?

-Okay, those aren't real names.
-You know what?

Don't tell me you have johnny,
roy, and texas on your phone.

Mm-hmm. Here.

[country music on phone]

wow.

Okay.

I'll, uh,
I'll text you a playlist.

[chuckles]
sure.

Maybe you would like to hear
some of my music?

-You and katie?
-Your music?

Yeah, I have a christmas concert
tomorrow night

at the charleston atrium.

I'm with a string quartet.

And katie could hear
how the professionals do it,

and you could see what
classical music is all about.

I mean, if you, if you want.

Oh, you know, katie and I,
we-we, uh, we don't get out--

yeah, I, I shouldn't have.

But you know what? That's all
the more reason we should.

I'd love to,
and I know katie would too.

Okay, great.

[indistinct chatter]

butterflies?

-More like a flock of birds.
-[chuckles]

-okay, pal.
-[indistinct chatter]

hi.

This is, like, professional.

[tim] sean?

And this must be
the talented katie.

I'm tim, beth's dad.

Tim. We were sorry
to hear about johannah.

She's one of a kind.

And I know how hard it can be
this time of year.

If there's anything
we can do for you.

Very kind. Thank you.

[applause]

[instrumental music]

[music continues]

[music continues]

[applause]

all right! Whoo!

[exhales]

oh, that was...

-Beth, are you all right?
-Sorry.

I haven't played liked that
in a long time. Years maybe.

You played beautifully.

Thank you. Thank you.
It felt effortless.

-Have you ever considered... Oh!
-What?

Look, the second chair
of the first violins

is coming available
in the chamber orchestra.

Auditions come around
once a decade.

I could put your name in. I can
reserve you a spot if you want.

[exhales]

yeah. Oh, hey.

-[applause]
-[laughs] aww. Thanks.

This is what we do.

Good to hear it with
professional players, huh?

It is.

Wasn't too stuffy for you?

You were fantastic.

A natural with that group.

And, I must admit, it is good
to hear that kind of music

in west virginia.

Oh.

Here's our star.

-Are you all set?
-Yes.

I can't wait for our
next lesson, beth! Bye!

-Bye!
-Bye!

Buh-bye!

You were amazing,
I'm so proud of you.

-Thanks for being here.
-[tim chuckles]

♪ leaning fully ♪

♪ oh string lights ♪

♪ snow on the ground ♪

♪ can open your heart to a... ♪

[sighs]

♪ feeling ♪

relax your face.
Try not to tilt your head.

Violin parallel to the ground,
and again.

I'm sorry.
All the things you're saying

are just getting
jumbled in my head.

That's okay. Take a breath.
You'll get there.

Your mom used to make us close
our eyes when we got stuck.

I like that.
Let's try that.

[violin music]

that was outstanding.

You deserve a break.

Why'd you pick the violin?

Uh, well, the fiddle
made me wanna dance.

And my mom said if I'm
gonna learn an instrument,

I need to master techniques,

so no one can question me later.

Mm, wise words.
Do you love it?

I put it down for a while, but
I picked it back up for my mom.

And now,
I really love it, so...

-Well, you're already so good!
-Thanks.

The other day
when I saw you playing,

it made me really happy,
because...

When I see the videos
of all the famous violinists,

none of them look like me.

And then, I thought I chose
the wrong instrument,

because...

I used to feel the same way.

But then, I realized
that it's okay

to choose your own path.

So, if violin, or drums,
or any other instrument

ignites something in you,

pinky promise me
you'll follow it.

-I promise.
-[laughs]

my dad and I don't talk about
stuff like this.

Or about my mom. Cistma.

What would she do?

She used to make things like
ornaments, decorations, cookies.

My dad forgets the
fun stuff, like...

He surprised me with a tree,
but we haven't decorated it yet.

How about,
if after our next lesson,

we ditch these candy canes

and we make you an angel
tree topper instead, hm?

You can make one
that looks like your mom.

-That'd be fun!
-Okay, good.

Oh!

Does your dad know how lucky
he is to have you?

-I think he does.
-[laughs]

let's get back at it.

-Hello.
-Hey, dad.

-Are those our ornaments?
-Uh-huh.

And I thought
we could order pizza

while we decorate the tree.
How does that sound?

Sounds good.
Can beth help, too?

Yeah, we can use
an extra set of hands.

If she's game.

[katie] all he listens to
is country.

Turns out, you're a snob, too.

Ooh! Burn, dad!

I love the string quartet.

It's just that classical music,
I-it's...

Well, it's stuffy.

Classical composers
were the original

rebels and rulebreakers
of their time.

Okay, but there's just,
there's so many rules.

Well, you follow rules
in your music, right?

Same instruments
for every song...

Guitar, bass, drums, fiddle.

Same themes,
same length for radio.

Okay, okay, but when I play,
I play it from my heart.

I-I play because it moves me,
you know,

I'm not following rules and...

Music, I-I-it can inspire me,

it can be anything.

Yeah, I'm sure beethoven
would agree with that.

I was thinking about getting
some classical music

for katie
for her christmas gifts.

Yeah, I can recommend
some downloads.

You know, I was actually
thinking albums.

Something vintage, vinyl.

You know, m-maybe you could...

Meet me at the, uh,
major key music shop?

I mean, katie's getting serious
about this classical music

thing, I-I-I wanna know
what I'm talkin' about.

Sure. Sounds fun.

Okay.

Ruthie! R-ruthie!

Uh, this is katie's
violin teacher.

Ruthie, hi.

-Beth. Johannah's daughter.
-Yeah.

I was so sorry
about your mother's passing.

Her service was beautiful.

Well, it's very nice
to finally meet you.

Thank you for dinner.

-And I'll see you tomorrow.
-Yep.

Merry christmas, ruthie.

-Good luck with the choir.
-Thank you.

And merry christmas to you.

Come by any time.

"see you tomorrow." mm.

Sounds like more than a violin
teacher to me!

[laughs]

[instrumental music]

[beth] oh, I love
the nutcracker.

Maybe I should do a piece
from this.

This was my favorite, this was
the very first concert

that my mom took me to.

The nutcracker? That was the
first concert you ever went to?

Yes, my parents were season
ticket holders

to the orchestra.

My dream was to play with them.

That's why I joined
the youth orchestra.

I was one of those audition kids

always trying to get
the scholarship.

I was actually
given a fellowship

to new york's, uh, rostand.

You know? The feeder school
for new york's--

oh, yeah, yeah. I know what
that is, it's a big deal.

Oh, yeah, well...

They usually pick
a couple of kids to join

as apprentices in the orchestra.

I was not chosen.

But, I never gave up.

Did you wanna stay in new york?

Well, the chances of getting a
job are higher if you're there.

Because all the
regional orchestras,

they audition in new york.

Yeah, sure, but, um...

That's not what I asked.

The chamber orchestra
is like the supreme court.

Someone has to die
for a seat to open up.

Well, except, now it has.

What if you get it?

I don't know,
it's only these past few months

I've been able to see charleston
through new eyes.

That's a good title.

Through new eyes.

Oh, it's yours,
if you're writing.

Are you writing?

Well, trying to.

It might be hard for you to see,
but...

You influence a lot of people.

You're really lucky.
Wish I could do that.

Well, you do do that.
With katie.

I mean, you have
an influence on her.

After she saw you perform
with the quartet,

she, she couldn't stop
talking about you.

I think seeing you
made something click.

Made it seem possible for her.

Yeah, yeah, she told me that.

But I didn't think of it
as influence

so much as understanding.

Well, maybe those are
the same things.

Success!

Three other stores are
confirmed for a donation

to the silent auction,
the office supplies,

dress shop,
and hardware store.

-Amazing.
-For the recital?

Yes! Everyone's getting
into the christmas spirit!

How do I like it?

All right, well, maybe we should
find katie's gift.

We have procrastinated
long enough.

Yeah.

So, what do you think
you're gonna get?

Hey, dad, I'm back,
do you wanna see what I got

for our angel tree recipients?

-Sure.
-What's wrong?

I was working the numbers,
and we're definitely gonna need

more than just the school
neighborhood to turnout

if we're gonna buy
the instruments

that hayley gave us
on that list.

You think we, uh, overpromised?

Anything we raise
is gonna be a win.

Don't worry,
you'll get used to it.

This will be an annual event
after all.

Yeah.
Who's idea was that again?

-That was yours.
-Yeah.

-You're right, we got this.
-Got this.

So, the, um... Reindeer, huh?

Yeah! Cute, huh?

-Ludwig.
-Boom.

Ludwig, I know this.

Ludwig van somethin',
it's van...

Ludwig van damme.

[laughing]

hey, speaking
of classical music...

-How do you like beth?
-I love her.

She's so smart and nice.

-You love her?
-Yeah.

Well, we were talking about mom,
and she's gonna bring over

some crafts later,
it's going to be so cool.

You, uh...

You were talking about mom?

Yeah.

What's the big deal?

Beth and I have a lot in common.

Like, she lost her mom, too,

and...

And christmas makes us both
a little sad.

Christmas makes you sad?

A little.

Katie, you know, you can
talk to me about these things.

-You're not mad, are you?
-Katie cat.

Just don't be so quick
to let people in, okay?

Okay.

Hello. Katie told me to meet
you guys down here. Whoa!

This place is cool.
So big and open. Hi.

-Hi, beth.
-Why don't you go wash up?

Okay.

I was thinking on our break,
katie and I would make

angel tree toppers as a treat,
and--

I don't think that's such
a good idea.

I think you and I
need to have a talk.

Okay.

I don't understand why you're so
upset. I

talking about allison
in katie's lesson.

Okay, well, students and
teachers often bond over things

besides notes and bow positions.

That is not my experience.

Maybe not your teachers--

look, my career makes it hard

for me to give my child
a normal life.

Especially now, on my own.

When you started,
I asked you, I told you

to respect our privacy.

Yeah, well, it's, it was
an innocent conversation.

I haven't said anything about
you or katie to anyone.

She's just an 11-year-old

who misses her mom and she found
someone who understands.

I understand.

Maybe she has a hard time
talking to you about it.

Sean, I think you're a really
incredible father

and... You know what's right
for your daughter.

So, I don't wanna be anywhere
that I'm not welcome.

I think I should take a step
back from the lessons.

Okay.

And, um, just for the record...

I thought we were
getting somewhere.

Beth.

Would you tell katie I'm sorry?

I really enjoyed
playing with her.

[sighs]

-I need my lesson.
-I know, but just not today.

When?

We'll... We'll pick it up
in a bit.

But beth knows stuff. Beth plays
with me. Beth talks to me.

Katie, I...

Okay.

Sometimes I feel like I'm closer
to mom than I am to you.

Which makes me sad, because

you're the one who's here.

Sometimes because your mom's
not here, I get scared

of sayin' or doin'
the wrong thing.

And your grandma thinks
that I could do a better job

about lettin' you know
how I feel.

It's okay, dad, you're the one
who told me no one's perfect.

So when you make a mistake,
you can try again.

I'll tell you.

Thank you.

Allen key.

Allen key.

[violin music]

[breathing heavily]

so, what's your favorite class?

-Music. Definitely music.
-Of course.

-Music.
-[indistinct]

hey, ms. Lim, this is the guitar
my dad signed

to donate to the auction.

Wow. Thank you.
This is great.

-Thank you, katie.
-Bye.

Bye-bye.

-Bye, grandma.
-Ruthie.

You're a lifesaver!

I'm so happy to have you
onboard volunteering.

Oh, it's my pleasure.

I've been looking
for something new

to sink my teeth into.

You know, help me get
my groove back.

So how have things been
for you lately?

Well, I mean, with the recital,
and donations,

and teaching,
I just hope they find

a replacement
for johannah soon.

Okay.
So what would you like me to do?

I need 30 copies
of today's sheet music.

Oh, here she is.

Ready?

Dad?

[violin music]

I couldn't really get
a read on them and...

I felt a little nervous,
and in my head, so--

[linda] beth.

I'll talk to you
when I get home.

I was gonna call you
tonight, but...

We've decided to hold
a second audition.

For you and another player.

So, when I come back?

Bring along the player
who was at the quartet.

You know, the one who played
with heart, with joy.

Thank you, linda.

-Katie.
-Hey.

Can we put her on the tree?

-Did you make this?
-Yeah.

Really?

-How does that look?
-Looks pretty good.

Okay.

[instrumental music]

oh.

[sean] beautiful.
-Yeah.

Welcome to the christmas fair.

I am a music teacher
at bluffside elementary

and we are having our big
holiday recital on the 22nd.

We're gonna start
an instrument fund

in honor of
ms. Johannah hendricks,

the music teacher and champion
who we lost this year.

[applause]

and to give you
a little preview of the recital

I'll now have my fifth graders
join me on stage.

I'm real nervous
about the recital.

We can always just stay home
and have our own little concert,

just the two of us.

You know somethin'?

I used to have terrible
stage fright.

-You're making that up.
-No, it's true.

But you did all those shows
and all that touring.

Yeah, and I was terrified
every time.

-Seriously?
-Mm-hmm.

Then how'd you do it?

Well, when your mom and I
first started dating...

I invited her backstage
before one of my shows,

I gave the whole vip treatment.

But right before I went on,
I admitted to her...

That I was nervous.

And she said something
that I think of

before every concert.
You know what that was?

What?

Stop it, you love this.

And when you remember that...

Your fears fade,
because when you love something,

there's nothing to be
scared about.

And when in doubt, you can look
out in the audience

and know that I will
always be there

cheering you on.

-Okay. Deal.
-Okay. Deal.

-Beth!
-Hi.

Ms. Lim wants me to play
next to last in the recital.

So, right before you!

Can you come over tomorrow
so I can practice?

We'd love to have you back.

Pick up where you left off?

Is, uh, that what
everyone wants?

Listen, I want to apologize
for the other day.

-I'm sorry.
-Your privacy.

-I crossed a line.
-No, you didn't.

I overreacted.

Katie, excited about
the big show?

Um, mostly nervous,

but I'm gonna try and play
with joy,

like ms. Hendricks always said.

Can I introduce you
to my friend?

She's plays the drums
in the recital.

Yes, please.

-Can I see one of those?
-Yeah.

[sighs]

-does it ever get easier?
-Yes.

And, no.

[chuckles]

but mostly, yes.

♪ surrounded by ♪

♪ loved ones some old some ♪

♪ young ♪

[humming]

[indistinct singing]

[sighs]

[music box chiming]

[doorbell rings]

sean, hi.

Before you say anything else,

I owe you a better apology.

We spoke,
it's water under the bridge.

I want you to know
that I do trust you.

See, I've been workin' on this
song, and when I finished it,

the first person I wanted
to share it with was...

Was you.

Let me in?

Yeah.

[guitar music]

♪ ain't it funny how string
lights and snow on the ground ♪

♪ can open your heart
to a feelin' ♪

♪ surrounded by loved ones ♪

♪ some old and some new ♪

♪ I see your star on the tree
touch the ceiling ♪

♪ now I know christmas
ain't the same without you ♪

♪ but that old mistletoe ♪

♪ lets me feel your love
shining down ♪

♪ and every song the carolers
are singing ♪

♪ has your heart
in the sound ♪

♪ let those christmas bells
ring through the town ♪

♪ knowing you're still around ♪

[humming]

♪ every room in this house ♪

♪ has a holiday memory ♪

♪ I made everyone next to you ♪

♪ though this christmas
you're gone ♪

♪ I can still feel you
with me ♪

♪ we'll make those old memories
brand new ♪

♪ now I know christmas
ain't the same without you ♪

♪ but that old mistletoe ♪

♪ lets me feel your love
shining down ♪

♪ and all the songs
the carolers are singing ♪

♪ has your heart
in the sound ♪

♪ let those christmas bells
ring through the town ♪

♪ knowing you're still around ♪

♪ knowing you're still around ♪

[sighs]

[sighs] wow.

It's really good.

Thank you.

[beth] wow, I love it.

It's just, the bridge isn't
quite as strong

as the rest of the song yet.

I think, um, the turnaround
isn't...

Doing what you want it to,
musically.

You're offering me criticism?

No! No, no, no, no, sean.

I love it.

I love it,
I just think that

the bridge could be better.

[chuckling]

I think I needed that.

The truth is, um,
allison was my...

My harshest critic.

My mother was so blunt.

I just... Loved her for that.

Oh, I didn't even ask you, uh...

How'd your audition go?

It was, it was good.

They didn't exactly
give it to me in the room.

-So there's a second audition.
-Mm.

I have a bit of time
before I pick up katie.

Can I take you somewhere?

Sure. Yeah.

♪ go tell it on the mountain ♪

♪ over the hills
and everywhere ♪

♪ go tell it on the mountain ♪

♪ that jesus christ is born ♪

you know, my folks, they never
understood my music.

Or me for that matter.

Ruthie practically adopted me.

You know,
she's like the teacher--

teacher you never had?

♪ that jesus christ is born ♪

oh, wonderful.

All right, take a break,
get ready for the next song.

-Come on.
-[ruthie] well!

It's about time
you brought her by!

-Where's katie?
-Well...

Actually, I've gotta pick up
katie from a playdate.

Uh, can I give you a ride home?

No, no, it's okay, I'll walk.

I wanna watch some more
and visit with ruthie.

-You sure? Okay.
-Yeah.

-Bye.
-Bye-bye.

You really have a way
with the kids, wow.

I think it's all those years

as a school administrator
paying off.

Which is why I'm actually
thinking about

your mom's old job.

-You are?
-Mm-hmm.

Ruthie, that's amazing.

The kids are really lucky
to have you.

And I could say the same thing
about sean.

[chuckles]
it's professional.

Mm-hm, love may be blind

but I'm not.

[chuckles]

we're happy to have you back.

So, the russian dance again?

Actually, I'll be playing
felix mendelssohn's

hark the herald angels sing.

Whenever you're ready.

[inhales deeply]

[violin music]

you really like it?

Because, hersh,
I think I got more brewing.

Yeah, I might be able
to lick this album.

Yeah, just get back
in the studio with the crew.

Okay.

[music continues]

-thank you.
-Beth, wait.

[indistinct whispering]

we both thought your performance
was heartfelt and moving.

And, well...

We'd like to offer you
the position.

If you want it.

Thank you, I've just, um...

I didn't realize how happy
that would make me.

Well, we need you to start
right away.

Because you'll be featured
in our christmas concert.

December 22nd.

That's the same night
as the bluffside recital.

I'm so sorry, but we need you.

It's the most important concert
of the year.

Proceeds fund the entire season.

Of course.

I'm supposed to be there
for the kids and katie.

You and mom.

Look, beth, you dropped
your whole life to come back.

You spent months
at your mother's side.

Some kids would come
for the ceremony

and miss all the hard parts.

You did the hard part.

You can miss the recital.

There's just one more person
I have to tell.

[school bell rings]
bye.

Hi.

Oh.

Thank you.

Is everything okay?

Yeah, um... I got some news
to tell ya.

Okay.

Well, uncle hersh
wants me to record

some of my new ideas.

Cool.

The thing is, he wants me
to record them in nashville.

Wait, like, leave west virginia?

For how long?

Well, you know, it takes
some time to record an album.

But we'll be back all the time
to see grandma--

I don't even have friends
in nashville.

I know, I know you have
friends here, it's just...

You know, when the music...

But I guess it's probably gonna
be hard to get time

in the studio before christmas
anyway, so...

Seatbelts on.

So, you're not coming
to my recital?

I just can't
if I'm gonna take this job.

I'm so sorry.

It's okay,
I'm happy for you.

You can say it.

I'm just nervous
playing without you there.

Especially since it's my
last one at bluffside, and...

What're you talking about?

Dad and I are moving to
nashville, because of his music.

Your father knows
what's best for you both.

So...

We're just gonna make it
the best recital ever. Hm?

Ready? Bow up!

Back straight, and breathe.

Your, uh, last session
and your last student, huh?

I guess that's true, I hadn't
thought of it like that.

Katie said you're, uh,
moving back to nashville.

-She told you?
-Yeah.

Yeah, I-it's to record, I, um...

I don't have a studio here.

It's probably time for me
to come out of hibernation.

We'll be back, but...

Nashville will be home?

Yeah.

-Let me...
-Thanks.

Listen, I, I want to thank you

for everything
you brought katie.

It was more than I thought
she needed.

Music is the great connector.

And your honesty.

That, uh, used be something
I looked for in my music.

I forgot...

I forgot how important it is
in parenting, too.

You're a good teacher.

Not just for katie.

-Or, uh...
-Me, too.

What you said about
technique getting in the way

of the joy of playing.

You were right.

That's the reason I got the job.

So, thank you,
I got a lot too.

[sighs]

good luck with the orchestra.

Good luck in nashville.

Remember you've got one more fan
here in charleston.

[mellow music]

[car engine starts]

[sighs]

are these, um,
they just for display?

No. We had a surprise angel
donor come to my shop today.

-Paid in full.
-Wait, what?

Let's just say, I too have been
asked to keep things under wraps

and literally can't say
who the angel donor is.

-Sheila!
-Oh.

-Is it sean?
-It's totally sean.

It was his way
of saying thank you

to the school, your mom, you.

[sighs] he told me
he's going back to nashville.

Yeah.

You go get in your fancy dress
and you go wallop that crowd.

Next time,
this whole crew's

coming to see you
at concert hall.

Since you're here to stay.

I love you.

[music box chiming]

what's this?

My first concert for the youth
orchestra, I was petrified.

So my mom got me this music box
as an early christmas gift.

Just to remind me there's angels
everywhere that have my back.

That's lovely.

Linda, would it be terrible
if I missed the reception?

Why, do you not
want to be introduced

as a new member
of the ensemble?

No, I do, I do, but...

If I take off
right after the concert,

I might be able to make it to my
mom's recital before it ends.

How about the two of us
sneak out right after our bows?

Merry christmas!

I hope you're all having
a great night!

We are so excited
to announce the new head

of the bluffside music
department...

Ms. Ruthie sampson.

[cheering and applause]

oh, thank you, thank you.

Look at you.
You look as good as I feel.

And thank you very much
for that warm welcome.

Thank you also for
continuing to support

our wonderful students.

I cannot tell you how proud
and happy I am

to be taking over
this wonderful

music program.

Founded by my friend
johannah hendricks.

Johannah was a special person.

And there's a lot
that I could say about her.

But no one could say it better
than her husband.

So, please, welcome tim.

[applauding]

I thought a lot about what
I wanted to say about johannah.

And, uh, well,
goes without saying,

she was much better
at public speaking.

What johannah wanted most
was for everyone

to find the music
in their lives.

She challenged every student to
find their voice. Their music.

She worked every day
to make sure that students

could chase after their dreams
right here

in charleston and beyond.

For her, it was always
about the people.

That's you.

Johannah knew that she was not
only creating musicians,

she was creating a community.

And that was her gift to us.

Now, how about some
of that music, shall we?

[applauding]

let's go.

And to close
our recital tonight,

violinist katie grant.

[applauding]

-nervous?
-Yeah.

[violin music]

come on.

[cheering]

whoo!

-I'm kinda nervous.
-Stop it, you love this.

[instrumental music]

♪ good tidings to you
to you and your kin ♪

♪ we wish you a merry christmas
and a happy new year ♪

♪ we wish you
a merry christmas ♪

♪ we wish you
a merry christmas ♪

♪ we wish you a merry christmas
and a happy new year ♪

[cheering]

[violin music]

[cheering and applause]

merry christmas.

-Tonight was a blast.
-That was a special moment.

-It really was.
-Yeah.

-Here you go.
-Thank you.

With all the donations
we raised tonight

and because of our angel donor,

we raised enough for this year's
instruments, and two more years!

Yes!

I know what you did.

Oh, I have no idea
what you're talking about.

Grandma, that's the angel
tree topper we made,

it looks like mom.

Aw, it's beautiful.

It really did come out
beautifully.

Well, thank you for bringing
the supplies over.

Hey, sean! When are you gonna
get katie on the drums?

-Oh, I start lessons next week.
-That long? Come on!

Get beth on the fiddle,
and you guys got yourself

an all-star band, huh? Refill.

I think my fiddling technique

is gonna need
a little more work.

Now it feels like christmas.

-To christmas.
-[sean] to music.

-To music teachers.
-And to agents.

[laughing]

-how many cookies is that?
-Number three.

Number three, okay.

Well, then, there's probably
room for one more.

Katie cat.

-You were fantastic tonight.
-Thanks.

This music thing, is it
something you wanna stick with?

I think so.

I'm so proud of you.

Oh, sorry.

No, I was just, um,
getting out more cookies.

Woah, woah, woah, woah!

-Thanks.
-Hey, you just can't have one.

[laughs]

I think you made a friend
for life.

Mm.

She's an amazing girl.

She feels the same way
about you.

In fact,
katie and I were wondering

if you and your dad would like
to join us for christmas dinner.

Really?
Yeah, that sounds lovely.

Sort of a farewell dinner?

Well, it turns out,
we're not going to nashville.

What?
W-what about recording?

I decided to turn the barn
into a music studio.

That's why hersh is here, we're
gonna figure out the plans.

Katie and I love it here, and...

Well, we'd miss too much.

You know, I didn't think
that this christmas

would have any joy in it.

You changed that for me.

You, ruthie and katie.

Thank you.

You changed ours right back.

-So, christmas dinner, hm?
-Yeah.

And I was wonderin'...

In the new year,
if maybe you and I could...

Go hear some live music
one night?

Are you asking me on a date?

Am I really that rusty?

Maybe if you practiced,
you wouldn't be.

Beth hendricks,

would you go on a date with me?

That's music to my ears.

[instrumental music]