“A Charlie Brown Christmas” by Vince Guaraldi, released in 1965, remains one of my favorite Christmas albums. This unique soundtrack was an unexpected blend of traditional holiday tunes and contemporary jazz, serving as the first introduction to jazz for millions of people.

“Carol of the Bells” was written in 1916 by the Ukrainian composer Leontovich, based on four notes and the lyrics of an ancient pagan song of good wishes. In 1936, Wilhousky, an American composer, adapted new Christmas-themed lyrics. A famous adaptation was made by Maestro Williams for Home Alone.