Mannheim Steamroller

In an effort to breathe life into a style of music that is typically associated with days of yore and times when aristocrats ruled the majority of Europe, the American neo-classical group Mannheim Steamroller was formed in 1974 and has since helped introduce a new generation of fans to the wonders of symphonic music. Though the majority of the songs the group plays typically fall into the new age music category, the tracks are assembled in a way one would expect from a classical symphony. By incorporating elements of modern flair, like synthesizers and electronic drum kits, Mannheim Steamroller has pushed the boundaries of what people would typically perceive as compositionally sound music. While the outfit has always experienced marginal success since its inception, Mannheim Steamroller found its greatest critical and commercial success in 1984 when it released an album of Christmas instrumental covers.