Phillyist Playlist: Mannheim Steamroller at the Academy of Music

The world famous Mannheim Steamroller is giving what we are calling a "Christmas sneak peek" concert at the Academy of Music this Saturday, November 14th. As this is their 25th anniversary tour, the world famous instrumental group is bringing out the big guns and getting ready to rock your Christmas Tree sweater right off. Featuring both their incredibly popular Christmas music and a pretty impressive multi-media show, Mannheim Steamroller, or as we friends of the group like to call them, "Steam," offers a great way to kick off the beginning of that seemingly endless, but nonetheless magical, two month run up to Christmas awesomeness.

Along with the show, Steam is releasing a 2-CD retrospective featuring 25 (one for each year the group has been rockin') of the big holiday classics. Including favorites like "Joy to the World," "The Christmas Song," and "Winter Wonderland," the CD actual boasts a pretty strong array of guest artists. Members of both the Chicago and Omaha Symphonies make an appearance as well as Paul Winter and The Cambridge Singers.

There are two shows, one at 2 p.m. (great idea for families) and another at 8 p.m. and tickets are still available. Part of the Kimmel Center's Broadway Series, you can purchase tickets online or by calling the box office at 215-731-3333. Little tip? Get together a group of friends or family, as the Kimmel offers discounts to large groups. Besides, isn't getting together with relatives and saving money on stuff what the holidays are truly all about?

Mannheim Steamroller
The Academy of Music (Broad and Locust Streets)
November 14, 2009, 2:00 and 8:00 pm
Tickets: $30 – 65