People learn music 3 ways, by ear, by brain, and by muscle memory. Ear - it sounds good, feels right. Brain - I see it, Key of Ab, 3/4 time. Muscles - scales, exercises, patterns. Classical and classical leaning musicians tend to use brain and muscles (readers), pop musicians tend to use ear and muscles (hearers). But you'll learn the quickest if you train and rely upon all 3.
Christmas music is the best - the most amazing blend of joy, majesty, fun, power, and deepest beauty. Make some this week.