Anderson, L.: Sleigh Ride and Other Holiday Favourites
4/28/2009, 16 Tracks, 1:06:00
Featuring
Leonard Slatkin
Catherine Moore
David McCallum
John Blackshaw
BBC Concert Orchestra
Leroy Anderson
Did you know?
1/5
Historical Context
In Sweden, gifts are traditionally exchanged on Christmas Eve, not Christmas morning.
Cultural Impact
The secular song "Jingle Bells" is included in the overture because it is strongly associated with the gaiety and spirit of Christmas.
Composer Biography
The composer's parents were born in Sweden, influencing their family's Christmas traditions, such as celebrating on Christmas Eve and eating traditional Swedish foods.
Compositional Technique
The composer aimed to create a concert overture from Christmas songs, not a simple medley, by giving instrumental treatment to the themes.
Composition History
Arthur Fiedler, an American conductor known for his long association with the Boston Pops Orchestra, asked the composer to create a concert overture using Christmas songs.
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