Live Performance & Movie: A Charlie Brown Jazz Christmas
What happens when you pair a beloved animated holiday classic with a live jazz performance? You get one of the most heartwarming traditions of the season. The timeless 1965 film A Charlie Brown Christmas will come to life in a special presentation that combines the beloved Peanuts story with a live performance of Vince Guaraldi’s iconic jazz score by the award-winning Eric Byrd Trio.
This annual event has become a holiday favorite for families and jazz lovers alike, celebrating the true spirit of Christmas through music, nostalgia, and community. The program begins with the original 25-minute film, rated TV-G, which follows Charlie Brown as he searches for the deeper meaning of Christmas amid the season’s commercial rush. A 45-minute concert by the Eric Byrd Trio will follow the screening, showcasing Guaraldi’s classic themes and more. Two performances are scheduled for Sunday, December 7, at 3 p.m. and 6 p.m. Members receive a 10% discount on tickets.
The Eric Byrd Trio—comprised of pianist and vocalist Eric Byrd, bassist Bhagwan Khalsa, and drummer Alphonso Young Jr.—has earned widespread acclaim for their energetic blend of swing, bebop, gospel, and blues. The group received the Maryland State Arts Council’s $10,000 Independent Artist Award for outstanding artistic achievement and a Governor’s Citation honoring their 20 years of delighting audiences worldwide. Their most recent album, Twenty, won the 2022 Washington Area Music Award (Wammie) for Jazz Recording of the Year. Recognized on the Maryland Performing Artist Touring Roster, the trio continues to serve as passionate ambassadors of jazz, blending tradition and innovation with every note. For music lovers, families, and anyone seeking a touch of holiday joy, A Charlie Brown Christmas with the Eric Byrd Trio offers the perfect mix of nostalgia, artistry, and heart.
