Hospital Radio: Remember these classic Christmas music games? They’re back - with a twist

We all like to play a game at this time of year, there seem to be so many these days.

We have a whole bookcase of different games that are fun according to the box and for all the family. When I was growing up there were games, of course there were, but maybe not the as many as we see nowadays.

There are many that revolve around music, from party favourites like Musical Chairs to classroom games that teach rhythm and listening skills. These can be enjoyed by all ages, making them good for parties, learning, or just having a laugh.

We all remember musical statutes and pass the parcel, but music games have evolved over the years. I recall my children playing Hear it! Clap it! This is when you play a rhythm, and then others have to clap it back. You can try it yourself, Queen songs are good for this such as Radio Gaga and We Will Rock You. And we have all clapped to that bit in the Friends theme tune.

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These sort of games break the ice when groups get together and generally get people in a good mood. Music is supposed to be fun after all and you can all join in without taking centre stage.

Nowadays there are other options of course. You could always enter a Karaoke Contest.

I actually cringe at the idea, the thought of singing in front of a crowd is not something I’m keen on. You do at least have the words in front of you, so if you are lyrically challenged, that is no excuse for not giving it a go. Of course, it does help if you can hold a tune, but I guess we all know people where that does not seem to apply, but that’s all part of the fun.

It is also a bit annoying if you have a really good singer joining in, but that’s probably just me being a bit envious.

If you don’t fancy singing how about Name That Tune when a snippet of a song is played, and players usually in teams race to identify it. Or you could try a lyric challenge where one person sings or reads a line from a song and others must identify the tune.

As I am one of the lyrically challenged I find this difficult, but some people, seems to know all the lyrics to every song, which quite frankly isn’t really fair in my book.

A newish arrival on the musical games’ scene is Musical Bingo where instead of calling out numbers, songs are played and players dab titles from a card. I actually played this the other night at Greendale Farm near Westpoint, Alex Dobson strummed the tunes out, it was great fun, it helped as we got a full house!

It can be a game for all the family, you just need to put a little thought into the songs and know your audience if you are arranging it.

Here's a final thought, this is a bit radical in my opinion but I am assured it is a real game. It’s dance relay, now I am not talking Strictly Come Dancing here. This is where teams take turns dancing to different genres, and gain points for enthusiasm and style. I haven’t played but apparently each team lines up like in a relay race.

Then the first player from each team dances while the music plays. When the music changes the next person takes over,
continuing the dance in their own style.

Sound hilarious or excruciating depending on your mood. The judges or the audience award points for creativity, energy, or how well the team adapts to each new track. Alternatively, I guess it can just be for fun with no scoring everyone just enjoying the spectacle.

Lots to choose from for Christmas, however I suggest you choose wisely!