Trans-Siberian Orchestra Carries On

Trans-Siberian Orchestra has vowed that the show must go on following the recent death of founder Paul O’Neill.

The composer, producer and songwriter died in early April at the age of 61.

Brett Schauf, T&J Studios – Trans-Siberian Orchestra
Intrust Bank Arena, Wichita, Kans.

The remaining members of the progressive rock band released the following joint statement June 24 about TSO’s future tour plans:

“While all of us, the members of the Trans-Siberian Orchestra family, are heartbroken by the tragic loss of our friend and leader Paul O’Neill, we are determined to carry on the rock theater project to which he dedicated his life.

“Paul always talked about how he saw TSO as both an idea and ideal that would continue long after he stepped off the ‘flight deck’ (his name for the stage). We hope to continue his work of providing a timeless, multi-generational tradition like those created by his idol Charles Dickens.

“In that spirit, we are proud to announce that Trans-Siberian Orchestra will return with their 2017 Winter Tour featuring the cherished tale ‘The Ghosts of Christmas Eve’!”

Fans will have to stay tuned for the tour schedule. The routing for the 2016 holiday outing was announced in August and tickets went on sale in September. Last year marked the 20th anniversary since the release of TSO’s debut album, Christmas Eve and Other Stories.

The Hillsborough County Medical Examiner released an autopsy report May 25 saying that O’Neil had methadone, codeine, diazepam and an antihistamine in his system when he died. His cause of death was reported as an accidental drug overdose.

TSO posted a statement on its website May 30 saying his death resulted “from an unexpected reaction to prescribed medications to treat his numerous chronic illnesses (including bone augmentation surgery, complications from spinal fusion surgery, heart disease, and hypertension).”

In addition to founding TSO, O’Neil’s career included a stint at a major management company and time as a concert promoter in the ‘80s in Japan for artists including Madonna and Sting. His producer credits include Aerosmith’s Classic Live I and II albums.