'Tis the season to be jazzed! Cool Yule: A Jazz Spot Special, has once again fallen on Christmas Eve! This is the 9th edition of "Cool Yule" and your evening will be filled with jazzy yuletide carols old and NEW! 

American composers have been largely responsible for the secular trend of modern carols. Until the 19th century, Christmas was only celebrated in parts of the United States. Victorian-era American carols are exemplified by such songs as "Jingle Bells", and "Deck the Halls". Fast Forward to the 20th century…and we find that The 1940s was a golden age for American Christmas carols, with three of the most beloved ones  written and recorded at that time. "White Christmas" was written by Irving Berlin in 1942, "The Christmas Song", popularly known as "Chestnuts Roasting On An Open Fire", was written by Mel Torme, and made famous by Nat King Cole's 1946 recording. "Rudolph The Red Nosed Reindeer" was written by Johnny Marks in 1947, based on a character his brother-in-law, had created originally for a Montgomery Ward Department store promotion in 1939. Gene Autry's recording of the song became a fixture of the holiday season.

 In modern times, Christmas music continues to be re-interpreted and re-invented. New tunes are being written every year...but they don’t have the staying power of our favorites..... One thing that remains constant is the joy that music adds to the festive holiday season!

  

Masani will use her extensive holiday jazz collection to explore ancient yuletide carols, traditional tunes, spirit sounds and the good 'ole favorites that we all love to fill your evening. Be sure to tune in for "Cool Yule: A Jazz Spot Special" at 8 PM. You'll be swinging for sure!

If you have questions, you can e-mail Masani at jazz@gpb.org or join her on The Jazz Spot on GPB Radio on Facebook. Click here for the Cool Yule playlist.

Shine your light with others during the holiday season and throughout the year...and as you do that, please remain inspired by jazz music and culture, everyday! Wishing you bright moments, peace and the happiest holidays ever!!!