The show is inspired by the Peanuts holiday special Merry Christmas, Charlie Brown, which has become a December staple for many families since its premiere in 1965. The concert will feature music from Vince Guaraldi’s acclaimed soundtrack, which combines jazzy sounds with holiday cheer. Performers will wear holiday sweaters and outfits inspired by the cartoon special.
The instrumental score will be performed by a jazz trio featuring Duncan Wilson on piano, Adam Bowman on drums and Tyler Wagler on bass guitar. The musicians will be accompanied by The Kingsbury Music Singers, a children’s choir directed by Shannon Kingsbury, who will be performing the soundtrack’s memorable vocal parts.
The concert is part of the River Run Centre’s Borealis Music Series, which also includes the seasonal choral performance “Boreal’s Song for a Snowy Season” on December 19. Concerts featuring TV and film scores have become a popular way for instrumental musicians to reach audiences, often using popular characters on flyer printing and social media to help attract fans. The venue’s Arts Manager Gabriella Currie-Ziegler explained that
“For me, the soundtrack to A Charlie Brown Christmas is essential listening at Christmastime.”
A Very Charlie Brown Concert will take place at the River Run Centre on the afternoon of December 21.