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"Christmas Eve/Sarajevo 12/24" is a well-known holiday song by the Trans-Siberian Orchestra, and it's a unique and captivating piece of music. Here are some interesting facts about the song and the band:

1. Fusion of Classical and Rock: "Christmas Eve/Sarajevo 12/24" seamlessly blends classical music, specifically a portion of "Carol of the Bells," with hard rock elements. This fusion of two seemingly contrasting genres is a hallmark of Trans-Siberian Orchestra's style.

2. Tribute to Sarajevo: The song's title references Sarajevo, the capital of Bosnia and Herzegovina, which was severely affected by the Bosnian War in the 1990s. The song was originally conceived as a tribute to the people of Sarajevo during the war.

3. Created by Savatage Members: Trans-Siberian Orchestra was formed by Paul O'Neill, a music producer and composer. He was a member of the band Savatage, and "Christmas Eve/Sarajevo 12/24" was initially a Savatage track titled "Sarajevo 12/24." O'Neill, along with other Savatage members, brought their talents to the Trans-Siberian Orchestra project.

4. Debut Album: The song first appeared on Trans-Siberian Orchestra's debut album, "Christmas Eve and Other Stories," released in 1996. The album was a commercial success and helped establish the band as a holiday music powerhouse.

5. Instrumental Excellence: "Christmas Eve/Sarajevo 12/24" is primarily an instrumental piece with electric guitars, violins, and orchestral elements taking center stage. The song's energetic and powerful arrangement has made it a favorite for instrumental performances.

6. Iconic Live Shows: Trans-Siberian Orchestra is renowned for its elaborate live performances. During their annual holiday tours, the band's stage shows feature impressive lighting effects, pyrotechnics, and a large cast of musicians, making for a spectacular visual and auditory experience.

7. Chart Success: Despite being an instrumental track, "Christmas Eve/Sarajevo 12/24" received significant airplay on radio stations during the holiday season. It has charted multiple times and remains a favorite on holiday music playlists.

8. Charitable Contributions: Over the years, Trans-Siberian Orchestra has donated a portion of the proceeds from their tours to various charitable organizations. They have consistently used their success to give back to the community.

9. Ongoing Legacy: Even after the passing of Paul O'Neill in 2017, Trans-Siberian Orchestra continues to tour and perform their holiday shows, keeping the tradition alive and captivating audiences with their unique blend of classical and rock music.

"Christmas Eve/Sarajevo 12/24" has become a beloved holiday classic and is an excellent example of Trans-Siberian Orchestra's ability to create music that resonates with a wide range of listeners.