Jazzin’ the Holidays!

While readers know I never shy away from controversial topics (banjos? Sports at Universities receiving enough funding to run a small country while Music classes/lessons are held in portable classrooms?), I may be stepping over the boundary this time. I’ve decided to devote this entry to Christmas Music. Now, BEFORE you quickly turn the page (or scroll down), just read me out…I know that the subject of Christmas Music and Jazz has always been a line in the sand between those who love the idea, and those who think the only real jazz tune for the (Christian) holidays is “Santa Claus is Coming to Town.” It’s just that I’ve always loved the tunes we seasonally enjoy—or endure, depending on your outlook. I’m not sure why. Perhaps it’s the simple melodies and harmonies? I gravitate toward simplicity (while proofreading, my wife remarked, “like attracts like”), but I don’t think that’s the only factor. It might be that many of these carols and songs are centuries old and, through them, we are invited to quietly contemplate something bigger than ourselves. Maybe it’s the snow, the egg nog, the mistletoe, the egg nog, the tree taking up more room in the house than is reasonable—have I mentioned egg nog yet? Or maybe it’s a joyous reminder that in the right hands and heart, any tune can be transformed into an exciting, or contemplative, or moving (or ALL of thes