Album Notes

The group Prelude formed in 1978 by trumpeter Dave Detwiler, has performed at literally thousands of weddings, parties, barmitzvahs, retirements, conventions, and concerts, all over the Washington, D.C. area and surrounding suburbs. Known for years for their quality music, no matter what the occasion, this extraordinary group has now recorded a truly unique collection of Christmas melodies arranged in a variety of jazz forms by several of today's genius writer-arrangers. Christmastime in Washington blends superb musicianship with great charts and has a little something for everybody. From the straight ahead jazz arrangements on Frosty The Snowman, Sleighride, and God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen, to the easy listening jazz style of I'll Be Home For Christmas, Christmastime Is Here and In The Bleak Midwinter, the fresh approach and creative improvization will entertain the novice and jazz expert alike. The Brass choir opening to Away In A Manger, and the totally New Orleans approach to Jingle Bells as well as three great vocal tunes and a Funky Little Drummer Boy should make this a seasonal favorite for many years.