Mannheim Steamroller brings Christmas to Des Moines
12/4/2024
Photo by Matt Christine Photography
Classic holiday albums sung by Bing Crosby, Mariah Carey and Elvis Presley stand the test of time. Yet one band, Mannheim Steamroller, took it a step further and created its own genre of music.
Mannheim Steamroller’s “Christmas” album debuted in 1984 with music the band referred to as 18th century classic rock. That album, along with “A Fresh Aire Christmas,” consistently make the top Christmas albums of all time with more than 41 million albums sold. The Grammy award-winning band was named after Mannheim, Germany, where Mozart lived.
The band stops for two shows at the Des Moines Civic Center on Dec. 21. One of Mannheim Steamroller’s drummers, Tom Sharpe, spoke about playing with the iconic band.
Sharpe, in his 17th year touring with the group, recalls when he first heard Mannheim Steamroller in 1984.
“I thought this was really incredible. I listened to it twice in a row. It was groundbreaking and revolutionary. It inspired an entire genre of music,” he says.
He says the group is one of a kind.
“There is only one Mannheim Steamroller, and the person who cut that path is Chip Davis (founder of the group).”
Sharpe knew early on he wanted a career in music. He began playing the piano at age 5 and the drums at age 11. He’s a classically trained musician. He attended Interlochen Arts Academy and holds music degrees from DePaul University in Chicago.
Aside from Mannheim Steamroller, he’s also a composer, plays with Sharpe World Music Ensemble and has played with numerous musicians. He was the drummer for former Styx frontman Dennis DeYoung’s band for seven years.
“I’m proud of my career,” he says. “My music has won some awards.”
His diverse background in orchestral and progressive rock allows him to easily switch between different genres.
“This tour allows me to bend and stretch in different ways. From classical sophistication to raw rock, it’s technically challenging,” he explains. “Every time I come back to the tour, I’m amazed. I listen to it with fresh ears, as it’s so richly layered.”
As a drummer, it’s his responsibility to drive the group forward and stay on top of cues. Drumming is an active role in the band.
“It lends itself to being showy by moving your arms,” he says. “Drumming is just as melodic as any other instrument.”
He has a responsibility to the audience when performing in a legacy band.
“We know people who have come for years, but now they bring their kids, and we have new generations. These people have longtime traditions. We want to carry on this legacy. It’s a tremendous responsibility and a special thing.”
Music is more than a job.
“It’s our life’s work to be a musician,” he reflects. “It’s more than a career — it’s being called to do something. You think it’s something bigger than you and how you can make others feel like they are a part of something.”
He plays every song with gusto and likens it to a sporting event.
“I play every song as if it’s my only song. I don’t save myself.”
Mannheim Steamroller concerts are unique.
“The lighting, tech and acoustics are a musical spectacular,” he explains. “Concert goers can expect one thing — high quality. High quality always wins.”
He invites folks to attend a special evening where they’ll play all the classic pieces plus some “surprises.”
“There’s so much going on. You feel like you need your head on a swivel,” he says. “We have a job to lift up and play inspired so you can be inspired as well.” ♦
