What are the top instrumental jazz recordings of Christmas songs?

Instrumental jazz recordings of Christmas songs have become a staple in the holiday music genre, offering a unique and festive spin on traditional carols and hymns. The following are some of the most highly regarded instrumental jazz recordings of Christmas songs:

1. “A Charlie Brown Christmas” by Vince Guaraldi Trio – This classic album, released in 1965, features Vince Guaraldi’s jazzy piano playing and has become one of the most recognizable and beloved holiday albums of all time. The album includes popular tracks such as “Linus and Lucy” and “Christmas Time is Here.”

2. “Jingle Bell Jazz” by Ramsey Lewis Trio – Released in 1966, “Jingle Bell Jazz” is a classic holiday album that showcases the Ramsey Lewis Trio’s smooth jazz style. Tracks such as “The Little Drummer Boy” and “Deck the Halls” have become holiday favorites for jazz fans.

3. “The Most Wonderful Time of the Year” by Dave Koz – This album, released in 1999, features saxophonist Dave Koz and a host of special guests, including Kenny Loggins and Brian McKnight, playing instrumental versions of classic holiday songs. The album includes tracks such as “Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer” and “Let it Snow.”

4. “An Oscar Peterson Christmas” by Oscar Peterson Trio – This album, released in 1996, features Canadian jazz pianist Oscar Peterson and his trio playing instrumental versions of classic Christmas songs. Tracks such as “Jingle Bells” and “The Christmas Song” showcase Peterson’s virtuosic piano playing.

5. “A Jazz Piano Christmas” by various artists – This compilation album, released in 1994, features a variety of jazz pianists playing instrumental versions of classic Christmas songs. Artists include Hank Jones, Benny Green, and Ahmad Jamal, among others.

These instrumental jazz recordings of Christmas songs offer a unique and festive spin on traditional holiday music, showcasing the talented musicianship of some of the greatest jazz artists of all time. Whether you’re a fan of smooth jazz, swing, or bebop, there’s something for everyone on these classic albums.

Sources:

• “A Charlie Brown Christmas” by Vince Guaraldi Trio (Fantasy Records, 1965)
• “Jingle Bell Jazz” by Ramsey Lewis Trio (Cadet Records, 1966)
• “The Most Wonderful Time of the Year” by Dave Koz (Capitol Records, 1999)
• “An Oscar Peterson Christmas” by Oscar Peterson Trio (Verve Records, 1996)
• “A Jazz Piano Christmas” various artists (Concord Records, 1994)