For those of you who may not know, Uptown Violins is literally my sister site, made up of my mother, 4 sisters, and me. Holidays are our favorite time of year because we have the chance to spend time with each other as a family!
We have been performing together since we were children, when we were called the Five Star Strings, as well as the Belles of Christmas. These holiday shows were the highlight of my year, which is why Christmas music continues to hold such a special place in my heart.
My mother Allison also grew up performing with her 9 siblings and parents, known as the Scheer Delights. They loved to reenact The Sound of Music, as well as perform Christmas shows together.
This year, Uptown Violins members have joined me for several Christmas songs that bring back the joy of these holiday performances.
“Christmas Is Coming” is a traditional English carol set to two different tunes, one of which is the same as “Country Gardens.”
The audio sample is even used in contemporary culture in the Australian children’s show Bluey, episode “Pass the Parcel.”
“O Come, Little Children” is one of the first Christmas songs young violinists learn from the Suzuki Violin Book. This year, my two children sang the verse, and my 6-year-old niece performed the tune on the violin.
One of the most stunning performances on my album this year includes my mother’s beautiful rendition of the Italian Christmas song Gesù bambino by Pietro Yon, written in 1917. This beautiful recording doesn’t do justice to the incredible power of her voice when performed live, but it is still a joy to listen to, and one of my favorites on this album. I had the privilege of playing the original violin obbligato part. The composer samples from “O Come, All Ye Faithful” during the chorus.
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