Local jazz musicians will perform the beloved soundtrack of Vince Guaraldi for the classic 1965 television special, A Charlie Brown Christmas, on December 11 at 7 p.m. The performance will take place at the iNDIGO ROOM at iAM Music, located at 1315 Main Ave. #207. Tickets are available for $20 in advance or $22 at the door.
The trio, consisting of bassist Chuck Hank, drummer Alec Mayes, and pianist Clarke Reid, aims to breathe new life into the iconic melodies that have become synonymous with the holiday season. Joining them for select vocal parts will be singer Dana Ariel. The musicians are excited about this project, motivated by their shared appreciation for Guaraldi’s work.
Hank expressed the significance of the soundtrack, noting, “Everybody we know has basically grown up with A Charlie Brown Christmas. The soundtrack is one of the most epic soundtracks of all time.” He emphasized the group’s commitment to capturing the essence of the music while infusing it with their unique jazz interpretations.
“What we’re doing is trying to cover the album,” Hank explained. “We want to play all of these little parts that make it so special, so epic and so well known.” The musicians are not only aiming to entertain but also to evoke nostalgia, tapping into the emotional resonance that the music holds for many.
The performance will feature familiar tunes such as “Linus and Lucy,” which is perhaps the most recognized melody from the Peanuts franchise. This piece showcases Guaraldi’s ability to blend traditional holiday music with the improvisational nature of jazz. Two minutes into the song, audiences can expect to hear the trio lay down an infectious groove, showcasing their musicianship.
In addition to the iconic melodies, the setlist will include traditional songs like “Hark, the Herald Angels Sing” and “My Little Drum.” Hank noted that Guaraldi and his band not only honored these classic tunes but also transformed them, stating, “They paid tribute to these amazing melodies, and then they go, ‘OK, now it’s time to swing it.’”
The event promises to be an engaging blend of holiday spirit and jazz, appealing to audiences of all ages. Hank remarked on the universal appeal of A Charlie Brown Christmas, saying, “If you were born between 1940 and now, this animated special and its accompanying soundtrack is universal viewing and listening.”
As the date approaches, the trio is focused on perfecting their performance, eager to deliver an experience that resonates with both long-time fans and newcomers alike. For those interested in attending, tickets can be purchased in advance through the iAM Music website.
This concert serves not just as a holiday celebration, but as a reminder of the joy and nostalgia that music can evoke, particularly during the festive season.
