Original 'A Charlie Brown Christmas' Soundtrack Performed Live Saturday In Blue Island

BLUE ISLAND, IL — If you’re a fan of “A Charlie Brown Christmas,” which debuted 60 years ago this month on CBS, the Blue Ridge Historical Society will host local musicians Casey McDonough, Brendan McAlinden, and more, will perform the original Vince Guardaldi Trio soundtrack live this Saturday, Dec. 20.

The concert starts at 7 p.m. in the awe-inspiring nave of First Lutheran Church, 2519 Grove St., Blue Island. Tickets are $30, and $20 for seniors, and can be purchased online at Blue Island Historical Center. All guests age 21 and older will receive two drink tickets, redeemable for beer or wine at the event.

After the comic strip by the late, great Charles M. Schulz debuted in 1950, “Peanuts” had become a global phenomenon in the 1960s. Producers Lee Mendelson and Bill Melendez approached the cartoonist and pitched a Christmas special. Schulz was adamant that the special not have a laugh track – then a staple of TV animation – and focus on the true meaning of Christmas. The tone, pacing, music and animation led both producers and network to believe the special would bomb.

Much to their surprise, “A Charlie Brown Christmas” premiered to high ratings and critical acclaim. The special has been a holiday classic ever since.

This is a unique opportunity to hear the original Vince Guaraldi Trio soundtrack, including such original tracks as “O Tannenbaum,” “Linus and Lucy,” “Christmas Time Is Here,” “Skating,” and “Christmas Time Is Here,” as heard on the beloved holiday special.

Proceeds from the concert will benefit the Blue Ridge Historical Society, Faith Lutheran Church and the musicians.