Trans-Siberian Orchestra (TSO) is an American heavy metal group established in 1996
by Paul O'Neill, a producer, composer, and lyricist. He united Jon Oliva and Al Pitrelli,
both from Savatage, along with keyboardist and co-producer Robert Kinkel to create the
band's foundational team. Their popularity surged after they began touring in 1999,
following the release of their second album, The Christmas Attic. In 2007, The Washington
Post labeled them as "an arena-rock juggernaut," likening their sound to a blend of Pink
Floyd, Yes, and The Who. TSO has sold over ten million concert tickets and albums,
producing a series of rock operas, including Christmas Eve and Other Stories and
Beethoven's Last Night. They are also recognized for their charitable efforts and
spectacular concerts featuring a full orchestra, light shows, lasers, and synchronized effects.

Billboard Magazine and Pollstar have listed TSO among the top twenty-five ticket-selling
bands of the early 2000s. Their unique journey to success is notable, as O'Neill claimed
they were the first major rock band to skip clubs and opening acts, going directly to
theaters and arenas.

Whenever the band was off the road they returned to the studio and in 2004 completed
The Lost Christmas Eve, the final installment of the Christmas Trilogy. It is a story
of loss and redemption that encompasses a rundown hotel, an old toy store, a blues bar,
a Gothic cathedral and their respective inhabitants all intertwined on a single enchanted
Christmas Eve in New York City. The next year they combined all three Christmas albums
and released them in a box set titled The Christmas Trilogy, which also contained a DVD
of their 1999 TV special The Ghosts of Christmas Eve[21] (Each of the albums still continue
to be available individually.) The Lost Christmas Eve was first performed live in 2012
followed by a encore tour in 2013.[22] Critics once again called it "stunning showmanship"
"that included every trick known to man kind including massive pyro, spectacular lasers,
stages that hover over the audience, hot back up singers all the while constantly
connecting with their audience."