The Holy and The Ivy

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“The Holly and the Ivy” is a traditional English Christmas carol that dates back to the 18th century. It celebrates the symbolism of holly and ivy in Christian traditions, where holly represents Jesus and his suffering (the sharp leaves symbolizing the crown of thorns, and the red berries his blood), while ivy symbolizes the Virgin Mary.

Since “The Holly and the Ivy” is a traditional Christmas carol, try to evoke a feeling of joy and reverence in your playing. Keep the rhythm steady, as it often accompanies vocals, but allow the phrasing to breathe naturally with a gentle rubato in solo arrangements.

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Christmas Sheet Music

“The Nutcracker” was composed by Tchaikovsky in 1891-1892. It is renowned for its enchanting melodies, vivid orchestration, and captivating storytelling. The ballet is divided into two acts and features a wide array of memorable characters and dances. “The Nutcracker” is known for its iconic pieces, including the “Dance of the Sugar Plum Fairy,” the “Waltz of the Flowers,” the “Russian …

“The Birthday of a King” is a Christmas song written by William H. Neidlinger, with lyrics by William H. Neidlinger and E. R. Munro. It was first published in 1890 and has since become a traditional Christmas carol. The song celebrates the birth of Jesus Christ and the joyous occasion of His arrival. “The Birthday of a King” was originally …

“Angels We Have Heard on High” is a traditional Christmas carol, originating from France. The song is best known for its “Gloria in excelsis Deo” refrain, which reflects the biblical story of angels proclaiming the birth of Jesus to shepherds. The melody, known as “Gloria”, is believed to have been written in the 18th century, while the English lyrics were …

Frank Loesser wrote “Baby, It’s Cold Outside” in 1944. The song features a playful and flirtatious duet between a man (referred to as “the Wolf” in the original sheet music) and a woman (referred to as “the Mouse”). In the song, the woman is expressing her reluctance to leave the man’s company due to the cold weather outside, while the …

Max Reger’s Opus 17, No. 9 “Weihnachtstraum” refers to one of the pieces in his collection of solo piano works. It is a German phrase that translates to “Christmas dream” in English. It evokes a sense of the holiday season and the magical, dreamlike atmosphere that often accompanies Christmas celebrations. Reger’s “Silent Night” arrangement, also known as “Weihnachtstraum,” offers a …

“Deck the Halls” is a well-known traditional Christmas carol with Welsh origins, dating back to the 16th century. Its lively and festive melody is perfect for the holiday season. The carol is in a major key and follows a cheerful, upbeat rhythm, making it popular for group performances. Use smooth legato bowing for the longer phrases and short, crisp staccato …

Camille Saint-Saëns’ “Christmas Oratorio” (Oratorio de Noël), Op. 12, is a beautifully crafted sacred work for choir, soloists, and small orchestra. Composed in 1858, it is often performed during the Advent or Christmas season and is notable for its lyrical and serene character. The piece features 10 movements, and it is imbued with a sense of warmth and intimacy rather …

The melody used in “Joy to the World” is actually from Handel’s Messiah, but the lyrics were written by Watts to celebrate the second coming of Jesus Christ, rather than his birth. The song has since become associated with Christmas and is commonly sung during the holiday season.

“What Child Is This?” is a Christmas carol with lyrics written by William Chatterton Dix in 1865. The lyrics are set to the tune of the traditional English folk song “Greensleeves.” The carol focuses on the birth of Jesus Christ and reflects on the significance of His arrival. To play “What Child Is This” on the piano, a pianist should …

The popularity of “Gesù Bambino” extends beyond its initial composition, and it has been recorded and performed by numerous artists in various arrangements. The piece has become a holiday classic, evoking the spirit of Christmas and the warmth of the Nativity story. While “Gesù Bambino” on the violin may appear deceptively simple in its melodic structure, achieving a truly captivating …

“Here We Come A-Wassailing” is a traditional English Christmas carol that is often sung during the holiday season. It’s a cheerful and festive song that expresses well-wishes and good cheer as people go door to door, singing and celebrating the Christmas spirit.

“Away in a Manger” is a beloved Christmas carol that is often sung during the holiday season. It is known for its gentle and soothing melody, making it a popular choice for lullabies and children’s Christmas programs. The carol has a peaceful and contemplative tone. Organ Sheet Music.

Hector Berlioz’s “L’Enfance du Christ” (The Childhood of Christ) is an oratorio composed between 1853 and 1854. The work is divided into three parts and tells the story of the Holy Family’s journey to Egypt to escape the massacre of infants ordered by King Herod. The oratorio consists of the following parts: The skill level required to play Berlioz’s “L’Enfance …

“Jesus Christ the Apple Tree” is a popular English hymn that dates back to the 18th century. The lyrics of this hymn are often attributed to an unknown author. It is sometimes referred to as “The Apple-Tree Song” or simply “The Apple Tree.” The hymn uses the metaphor of an apple tree to represent Jesus Christ, drawing parallels between the …

“O Holy Night” (French: “Cantique de Noël”) is a Christmas carol that was written in French by poet Placide Cappeau and set to music by composer Adolphe Adam. Cappeau wrote the lyrics in 1843, and Adam composed the music later the same year. The carol was first performed in Roquemaure, France, during a midnight Mass on Christmas Eve in 1847.. …