Music and Christmastime have always gone hand-in-hand for me. Growing up in Utah, Christmas albums from Amy Grant, John Denver and The Muppets, The Tabernacle Choir, The Carpenters, and many others filled our home — and of course, FM 100.3’s nonstop Christmas music was always playing in the background. My parents made sure December felt special — centered on Jesus Christ, family, and the spirit of the season. That love for Christmas music and for our Savior continues to inspire this project every year.
In 2022, I started the Christmas Music Advent Calendar as a simple way to combine music and faith — a daily collection of songs and scripture that helped me and others seek Christ more intentionally throughout December. What began as a small personal project has since grown into something shared by friends, family, and even people around the world who love celebrating Christmas through uplifting music.
Each year has carried a different theme:
2022: Scriptures and Songs of Christmas
2023: Quotes and Messages Centered on Christ
2024: The Titles and Names of Jesus Christ
2025: Music and Personal Testimonies of Christ
Though the themes change, the purpose remains the same:
To draw closer to the Savior through music that testifies of Him.
Every December, this calendar features songs from many genres and artists, alongside messages of faith, reflection, and gratitude. It’s my hope that as you listen and read each day, you’ll feel peace, joy, and a renewed connection to the Light of the World — Jesus Christ.
Thank you for being here and sharing this tradition with me. Whether this is your first visit or your fourth, I’m grateful you’re part of it.
Dayton B. Martindale
Hi, I’m Dayton Martindale, and my wife Kallie and I live in Pleasant Grove, Utah. We met years ago in Orem while playing sports — something we both still love — and ever since then we’ve learned that just about everything in life is better when we do it together.
We’re parents to three wonderful kids: Quinn (5), Logan (3), and Scottie May (4 months). They are the joy of our lives, and we feel incredibly blessed to be their mom and dad. I’m especially grateful for Kallie — her patience, steadiness, and example keep our little family grounded. I’m always learning from her.
As a family, we love spending time together, traveling, going to sporting events and musical theatre, getting together with friends and family, and yes — enjoying the occasional McDonald’s cheeseburger. Simple moments together are our favorite ones.
Music has always been a huge part of my life, thanks to my parents who encouraged and inspired me to pursue it. I love playing the piano, singing, and performing, and one of the greatest joys recently has been singing alongside Quinn in the Millennial Choir and Orchestra. Watching her discover a love for music has meant the world to me.
Professionally, I work for BYU Continuing Education, doing outreach and marketing to help support students and schools through programs like BYU Independent Study. I’m grateful for the work I do and the people I get to serve.
This Christmas Music Advent has been a passion project of mine for the past four years. Each December, it gives me a chance to share my testimony of Jesus Christ through music while connecting with friends, family, and anyone who loves celebrating Him during the Christmas season. It truly is a labor of love.
Thank you for being here and for experiencing the Advent with me.
Please feel free to reach out — I’d love to hear what music strengthens your faith and brings the spirit of Christmas into your home.