Each year on Jazz Piano Christmas, we celebrate with one of the most beloved holiday traditions, music. This year, we add another sacred tradition common to every community: family. The stage at the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts in Washington Dec. 10 was overflowing with love as father-daughter and husband-wife duos let fly with love for each other and the holiday canon.
Willie Pickens says he used to practice with his daughter Bethany's bassinet by the piano, and it showed during their heartwarming performance. The telepathy, which was as deep as their shared DNA, resulted in joyful celebration.
Renee Rosnes and Bill Charlap, seated across from one another at two massive grand pianos, played a set that exhibited wordless marital conversation. Eye contact, smiles and intimate familiarity with their favorite holiday tunes made their performance brim with holiday spirit.
Hear the full performance at the audio link and listen to selections below. Happy Holidays!
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Hear The Performances
Bethany and Willie Pickens
Set List:
"Little Drummer Boy"
"O Come, O Come, Emmanuel"
"God Rest Ye Merry, Gentlemen"
Bill Charlap And Renee Rosnes
Set List:
"Sleigh Ride"
"Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas"
"It Came Upon the Midnight Clear/We Three Kings"
"Christmas Time Is Here"
"You're a Mean One, Mr. Grinch"
Round Robin (All Pianists)
Set List:
"Santa Claus is Coming to Town"
