9 holiday concert DVDs that will make the season sparkle
Editor’s note: This is a recurring post, regularly updated with new information and offers.
With live concerts still out of the holiday picture this season due to the continued threat of COVID-19 people are looking for any way they can to spark a festive feeling. If you’re cooped up at home, a live concert on DVD may be the best replacement for the usual holiday Christmas concerts and caroling. Whether you’re a rock and roll fan, someone who enjoys classic holiday tunes or even opera, there’s a holiday concert DVD that’s perfect for you.
Here are nine of our favorite holiday concert performances. While we’re recommending the DVD version so you can watch at home while you trim the tree, most of these concerts are also available on CD or as a digital download.
'CHRISTMAS ROCKS! LIVE' BY BRIAN SETZER ORCHESTRA
In this Blu-Ray DVD, Brian Setzer — of Stray Cats fame — and his band, the Brian Setzer Orchestra, will have you swinging and jumping in time with their lively performance of holiday classics, such as “Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree,” “Jingle Bells” and “Here Comes Santa Claus.”
Featuring 18 songs, including the hits “Stray Cat Strut,” “Jump, Jive An’ Wail” and “Rock This Town,” this is the closest experience you can get to seeing the band perform live. The video, which really captures the band’s concert at the historic Granada Theatre in Santa Barbara, is a great way to celebrate the holidays and even become one of your new Christmas traditions.
Who will enjoy this concert: Fans of Brian Setzer, the Stray Cats and rockabilly music
Buy here: “Christine Rocks! Live” by the Brian Setzer Orchestra
'CHRISTMAS LIVE' BY MANNHEIM STEAMROLLER
Featuring favorites from Mannheim Steamroller’s best-selling Christmas albums, fans will be hooked on the group’s “classical meets rock and roll” rendition of holiday tunes. Filmed live in 1997, this classic DVD includes “Joy to the World” from their “Christmas in the Aire” album and Renaissance-inspired songs, such as “Wassail, Wassail” and “In Dulci Jubilo.” On the screen, you’ll see fireworks and a Renaissance feast adding a visual dimension to the songs. And, as a Mannheim Steamroller tradition, the concert ends with the fan-favorite “Going to Another Place.”
Who will enjoy this concert: Fans of Mannheim Steamroller or anyone who appreciates neoclassical and rock music
Buy here: "Christmas Llive" by Mannheim Steamroller
'HOME FOR CHRISTMAS: LIVE FROM DUBLIN' BY CELTIC WOMAN
With timeless holiday favorites sung by angelic voices in the group’s unmistakable signature sound, “Home for Christmas: Live from Dublin” won’t disappoint Celtic Woman fans. The DVD showcases their concert at Dublin’s Helix Theatre, which was directed by Russell Thomas and accompanied by a 36-piece orchestra and the Philharmonic Choir.
Emmy-nominated music director David Downes also adds his flair to the performances. Highlights include “Joy to the World,” “Silent Night,” “It Came Upon a Midnight Clear” and “I’ll Be Home for Christmas.” There’s even a bonus of acoustic performances included in the DVD.
Who will enjoy this concert: Anyone who’s intrigued by Irish musical ensembles and loves all-women bands
Buy here: “Home for Christmas: Live from Dublin" by Celtic Woman
'A CARNEGIE HALL CHRISTMAS CONCERT' BY VARIOUS ARTISTS
Classic opera-lovers will be blown away by this DVD, featuring conductor Andre Previn, opera singers Frederica von Stade and Kathleen Battle, and jazz trumpeter Wynton Marsalis. It comprises 30 musical pieces, including “American Songs” by Battle and von Stade, along with other classic Christmas songs in English and some other languages. “A Carnegie Hall Christmas Concert” was part of the “Great Performances” series that first aired on PBS in 1991.
Who will enjoy this concert: Aficionados of opera and traditional Christmas songs
Buy here: “A Carnegie Hall Christmas Concert" by various artists
'THE JOHNNY CASH CHRISTMAS SPECIALS'
Originally aired on CBS, this collection of Christmas specials from the late 1970s will make a perfect addition to your Johnny Cash collection. The DVDs feature a nice mix of Christmas classics and country-western music, such as “Tie a Yellow Ribbon Round the Ole Oak Tree” with June Cash and Tony Orlando, “Blue Suede Shoes” by Carl Perkins, and “Pretty Woman” by Roy Orbison.
Who will enjoy this concert: Johnny Cash fans, or those looking for a little country music nostalgia
Buy here: “The Johnny Cash Christmas Specials”
'ANDREA BOCELLI AND DAVID FOSTER: MY CHRISTMAS'
A fun concert that’s set to become a holiday classic, “Andrea Bocelli and David Foster: My Christmas” brings together two of the biggest names in the music industry for the first time ever. You’ll enjoy Bocelli’s voice and Foster’s arrangement in a variety of songs, which range from the traditional Christmas carols, such as “Silent Night,” to the more modern Christmas songs, like “Santa Claus Is Coming to Town.”
Of course, Bocelli’s operatic voice is the main draw in songs such as “Adeste Fidelis” and “Angels We Have Heard on High.” Plus, guest stars blend their own voices nicely with Bocelli’s in songs such as “What Child Is This” with Mary J. Blige. The Muppets even make a special appearance singing “Jingle Bells.” The concert was recorded live at the Kodak Theatre in Los Angeles.
Who will enjoy this concert: Andrea Bocelli and David Foster fans as well as those who enjoy old-fashioned Christmas music
Buy here: “Andrea Bocelli and David Foster: My Christmas"
'CHRISTMAS GLORY FROM WESTMINSTER' WITH ANDREA BOCELLI AND CHARLOTTE CHURCH
A DVD that will be replayed over and over again, “Christmas Glory from Westminster” will easily become your new Christmas Eve tradition. Set in Westminster Abbey, the DVD features British singer-songwriter Charlotte Church, the Westminster Abbey Choir and more.
Highlights include Andrea Bocelli’s moving performance of “Mille Cherubini in Coro,” Charlotte Church and Bryn Terfel’s rendition of “Silent Night,” and poetic readings from Greta Sacchi and Joan Plowright. Lots of good songs and delightful performances make this DVD such a memorable experience.
Who will enjoy this concert: Fans of Andrea Bocelli, Charlotte Church and the other artists featured here; also recommended for those who enjoy traditional Christmas songs
Buy here: “Christmas Glory from Westminster" with Andrea Bocelli and Charlotte Church
'A LAWRENCE WELK FAMILY CHRISTMAS'
Hosted by “Champagne Lady” Norma Zimmer, this special holiday reunion will lift your spirits and get you into the right mood for the holiday celebrations. The special was filmed live at the Champagne Theatre in Branson, Missouri, and features more than 30 songs, including “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas” performed by The Lennon Sisters, “Christmas Waltz” by Bobby and Elaine, “It Came Upon a Midnight Clear” by Anacani, “The Skater’s Waltz” by Jo Ann Castle and more. This DVD provides a taste of the old days with lots of traditional Christmas carols and scenic holiday sets.
Who will enjoy this concert: Old-timers who remember “The Lawrence Welk Show” and the various artists he featured
Buy here: “A Lawrence Welk Family Christmas”
'THE MANHATTAN TRANSFER: THE CHRISTMAS CONCERT”'
Released in 2006, The Manhattan Transfer’s “The Christmas Concert” features 11 songs, including solos by each member, recorded in Dolby 5.1 surround sound. The DVD contains songs from the group’s two Christmas albums, such as “Goodnight” (written by John Lennon and Paul McCartney), “Christmas Is Coming,” “Good King Wenceslas” and more. The DVD also includes a bonus feature — a rare interview of the group.
Who will enjoy this concert: Fans of the award-winning jazz vocal quartet and those who enjoy jazzy Christmas tunes
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| 4X | Earn 4X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on purchases at restaurants worldwide, on up to $50,000 in purchases per calendar year, then 1X points for the rest of the year. |
| 4X | Earn 4X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent at US supermarkets, on up to $25,000 in purchases per calendar year, then 1X points for the rest of the year. |
| 3X | Earn 3X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on flights booked directly with airlines or on AmexTravel.com. |
| 2X | Earn 2X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on prepaid hotels and other eligible purchases booked on AmexTravel.com. |
| 1X | Earn 1X Membership Rewards® point per dollar spent on all other eligible purchases. |
Intro offer
Annual Fee
Recommended Credit
Why We Chose It
There’s a lot to love about the Amex Gold. It’s a fan favorite thanks to its fantastic bonus-earning rates at restaurants worldwide and at U.S. supermarkets. If you’re hitting the skies soon, you’ll also earn bonus Membership Rewards points on travel. Paired with up to $120 in Uber Cash annually (for U.S. Uber rides or Uber Eats orders, card must be added to Uber app and you can redeem with any Amex card), up to $120 in annual dining statement credits to be used with eligible partners, an up to $84 Dunkin’ credit each year at U.S. Dunkin Donuts and an up to $100 Resy credit annually, there’s no reason that foodies shouldn’t add the Amex Gold to their wallet. These benefits alone are worth more than $400, which offsets the $325 annual fee on the Amex Gold card. Enrollment is required for select benefits. (Partner offer)Pros
- 4 points per dollar spent on dining at restaurants worldwide and U.S. supermarkets (on the first $50,000 in purchases per calendar year; then 1 point per dollar spent thereafter and $25,000 in purchases per calendar year; then 1 point per dollar spent thereafter, respectively)
- 3 points per dollar spent on flights booked directly with the airline or with amextravel.com
- Packed with credits foodies will enjoy
- Solid welcome bonus
Cons
- Not as useful for those living outside the U.S.
- Some may have trouble using Uber and other dining credits
- You may be eligible for as high as 100,000 Membership Rewards® Points after you spend $6,000 in eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership. Welcome offers vary and you may not be eligible for an offer. Apply to know if you’re approved and find out your exact welcome offer amount – all with no credit score impact. If you’re approved and choose to accept the Card, your score may be impacted.
- Earn 4X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on purchases at restaurants worldwide, on up to $50,000 in purchases per calendar year, then 1X points for the rest of the year.
- Earn 4X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent at US supermarkets, on up to $25,000 in purchases per calendar year, then 1X points for the rest of the year.
- Earn 3X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on flights booked directly with airlines or on AmexTravel.com.
- Earn 2X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on prepaid hotels and other eligible purchases booked on AmexTravel.com.
- Earn 1X Membership Rewards® point per dollar spent on all other eligible purchases.
- $120 Uber Cash on Gold: Add your Gold Card to your Uber account and get $10 in Uber Cash each month to use on orders and rides in the U.S. when you select an American Express Card for your transaction. That’s up to $120 Uber Cash annually. Plus, after using your Uber Cash, use your Card to earn 4X Membership Rewards® points for Uber Eats purchases made with restaurants or U.S. supermarkets. Point caps and terms apply.
- $84 Dunkin' Credit: With the $84 Dunkin' Credit, you can earn up to $7 in monthly statement credits after you enroll and pay with the American Express® Gold Card at U.S. Dunkin' locations. Enrollment is required to receive this benefit.
- $100 Resy Credit: Get up to $100 in statement credits each calendar year after you pay with the American Express® Gold Card to dine at U.S. Resy restaurants or make other eligible Resy purchases. That's up to $50 in statement credits semi-annually. Enrollment required.
- $120 Dining Credit: Satisfy your cravings, sweet or savory, with the $120 Dining Credit. Earn up to $10 in statement credits monthly when you pay with the American Express® Gold Card at Grubhub, The Cheesecake Factory, Goldbelly, Wine.com, and Five Guys. Enrollment required.
- Explore over 1,000 upscale hotels worldwide with The Hotel Collection and receive a $100 credit towards eligible charges* with every booking of two nights or more through AmexTravel.com. *Eligible charges vary by property.
- No Foreign Transaction Fees.
- Annual Fee is $325.
- Terms Apply.
Rewards Rate
| 4X | Earn 4X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on purchases at restaurants worldwide, on up to $50,000 in purchases per calendar year, then 1X points for the rest of the year. |
| 4X | Earn 4X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent at US supermarkets, on up to $25,000 in purchases per calendar year, then 1X points for the rest of the year. |
| 3X | Earn 3X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on flights booked directly with airlines or on AmexTravel.com. |
| 2X | Earn 2X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on prepaid hotels and other eligible purchases booked on AmexTravel.com. |
| 1X | Earn 1X Membership Rewards® point per dollar spent on all other eligible purchases. |
Intro Offer
You may be eligible for as high as 100,000 Membership Rewards® Points after spending $6,000 in eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Membership. Welcome offers vary and you may not be eligible for an offer.As High As 100,000 points. Find Out Your Offer.Annual Fee
$325Recommended Credit
Credit ranges are a variation of FICO® Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit card application.Excellent to Good
Why We Chose It
There’s a lot to love about the Amex Gold. It’s a fan favorite thanks to its fantastic bonus-earning rates at restaurants worldwide and at U.S. supermarkets. If you’re hitting the skies soon, you’ll also earn bonus Membership Rewards points on travel. Paired with up to $120 in Uber Cash annually (for U.S. Uber rides or Uber Eats orders, card must be added to Uber app and you can redeem with any Amex card), up to $120 in annual dining statement credits to be used with eligible partners, an up to $84 Dunkin’ credit each year at U.S. Dunkin Donuts and an up to $100 Resy credit annually, there’s no reason that foodies shouldn’t add the Amex Gold to their wallet. These benefits alone are worth more than $400, which offsets the $325 annual fee on the Amex Gold card. Enrollment is required for select benefits. (Partner offer)Pros
- 4 points per dollar spent on dining at restaurants worldwide and U.S. supermarkets (on the first $50,000 in purchases per calendar year; then 1 point per dollar spent thereafter and $25,000 in purchases per calendar year; then 1 point per dollar spent thereafter, respectively)
- 3 points per dollar spent on flights booked directly with the airline or with amextravel.com
- Packed with credits foodies will enjoy
- Solid welcome bonus
Cons
- Not as useful for those living outside the U.S.
- Some may have trouble using Uber and other dining credits
- You may be eligible for as high as 100,000 Membership Rewards® Points after you spend $6,000 in eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership. Welcome offers vary and you may not be eligible for an offer. Apply to know if you’re approved and find out your exact welcome offer amount – all with no credit score impact. If you’re approved and choose to accept the Card, your score may be impacted.
- Earn 4X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on purchases at restaurants worldwide, on up to $50,000 in purchases per calendar year, then 1X points for the rest of the year.
- Earn 4X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent at US supermarkets, on up to $25,000 in purchases per calendar year, then 1X points for the rest of the year.
- Earn 3X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on flights booked directly with airlines or on AmexTravel.com.
- Earn 2X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on prepaid hotels and other eligible purchases booked on AmexTravel.com.
- Earn 1X Membership Rewards® point per dollar spent on all other eligible purchases.
- $120 Uber Cash on Gold: Add your Gold Card to your Uber account and get $10 in Uber Cash each month to use on orders and rides in the U.S. when you select an American Express Card for your transaction. That’s up to $120 Uber Cash annually. Plus, after using your Uber Cash, use your Card to earn 4X Membership Rewards® points for Uber Eats purchases made with restaurants or U.S. supermarkets. Point caps and terms apply.
- $84 Dunkin' Credit: With the $84 Dunkin' Credit, you can earn up to $7 in monthly statement credits after you enroll and pay with the American Express® Gold Card at U.S. Dunkin' locations. Enrollment is required to receive this benefit.
- $100 Resy Credit: Get up to $100 in statement credits each calendar year after you pay with the American Express® Gold Card to dine at U.S. Resy restaurants or make other eligible Resy purchases. That's up to $50 in statement credits semi-annually. Enrollment required.
- $120 Dining Credit: Satisfy your cravings, sweet or savory, with the $120 Dining Credit. Earn up to $10 in statement credits monthly when you pay with the American Express® Gold Card at Grubhub, The Cheesecake Factory, Goldbelly, Wine.com, and Five Guys. Enrollment required.
- Explore over 1,000 upscale hotels worldwide with The Hotel Collection and receive a $100 credit towards eligible charges* with every booking of two nights or more through AmexTravel.com. *Eligible charges vary by property.
- No Foreign Transaction Fees.
- Annual Fee is $325.
- Terms Apply.