“The First Nowell,” also spelled as “The First Noel,” is a traditional English Christmas carol. The word “Noel” is an old English word derived from the French “Noël,” which means Christmas. The carol dates back to the 18th century or earlier, and it tells the story of the nativity of Jesus Christ.
“A Holly Jolly Christmas” is a popular Christmas song written by Johnny Marks in 1962. It was first recorded by Burl Ives in 1964 and has since become a holiday classic. Marks was a prolific songwriter of Christmas tunes and is also known for composing other holiday classics like “Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer” and “Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree.” “A …
The “Coventry Carol” is a Christmas carol that dates back to the 16th century. It is part of a larger work known as the “Coventry Mystery Plays,” which were a series of dramatic presentations or pageants performed in Coventry, England, during the late Middle Ages. The carol is specifically associated with the “Pageant of the Shearmen and Tailors,” one of …
“Christmas Is Coming” is a traditional Christmas song that is often associated with the holiday season. It is not a well-known or widely recognized Christmas song with a distinct origin. It may be a lesser-known or regional carol, and there isn’t significant historical or cultural information available about it. However it is commonly sung as part of the Christmas carol …
Also known as “See Amid the Winter’s Snow” is a traditional Christmas carol with lyrics written by Edward Caswall and music composed by Sir John Goss. It was first published in 1854. This carol is known for its serene and reflective lyrics that tell the story of the birth of Jesus Christ and the adoration of the shepherds and angels. …
Franz Liszt’s “Carillon” is a delightful and evocative piano composition. Liszt, a prominent figure in the Romantic era of classical music, composed this piece as part of his larger work titled “Années de pèlerinage” (Years of Pilgrimage). “Années de pèlerinage” is a collection of three suites for solo piano, and “Carillon” is part of the first suite, “Suisse” (Switzerland). “Carillon” …
“In Dulci Jubilo” is a traditional Christmas carol that originated in Germany in the Middle Ages. The title is often translated as “In Sweet Rejoicing” or “In Sweet Jubilation.” The lyrics are written in a mix of Latin and German, and the melody is upbeat and festive. The piece is characterized by its lively tempo and jubilant spirit, making it …
“Song of the Bagpipers” in Neapolitan is known as “Canzone dei Zampognari.” This traditional Neapolitan Christmas song is often associated with the image of bagpipers playing festive music during the holiday season in Southern Italy. Due to the technical demands and nuanced expression required, “Song of the Bagpipers” is best suited for intermediate to advanced pianists. A solid understanding of …
“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 …
“A Christmas Greeting” Op. 52 is a short and delightful composition that captures the spirit of the season. Elgar, known for his orchestral works and the famous “Pomp and Circumstance” marches, demonstrates his versatility in this enchanting piece. The composition exudes warmth and joy, making it a perfect choice for violinists aiming to spread holiday cheer through their music. While …
Bach’s Weihnachtsoratorium, or Christmas Oratorio, is a masterpiece that has stood the test of time, showcasing the genius of Johann Sebastian Bach. Originally composed for the Christmas season, the oratorio has become a beloved piece in the classical music repertoire. While it is often performed by orchestras and choirs, tackling it on the violin is a challenge that demands both …
“The Christmas Tree” (Elka in Russian), Op. 21 is a suite of piano pieces that depict scenes related to a Christmas tree and its decorations. The suite is often performed as a set of miniatures, each capturing a different aspect of the holiday season. It is considered one of Rebikov’s most well-known and charming works. The “Christmas Tree Waltz” is …
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 …
Composed by George Frideric Handel, “Joy To The World” was initially not intended to be a Christmas carol. The melody we associate with the song today was adapted by Lowell Mason in the 19th century from Handel’s work. The result is a piece that radiates exuberance and has become a staple in holiday celebrations around the world. For those just …
This piece is a setting of the Gloria text, a part of the Ordinary of the Roman Catholic Mass. It is a relatively concise work compared to some of Bach’s other choral compositions. The text “Gloria in excelsis Deo” is Latin for “Glory to God in the highest,” and it is a hymn of praise to the Holy Trinity. Arranged …
“It Came Upon the Midnight Clear” is a popular Christmas carol with lyrics written by Edmund Hamilton Sears in 1849 and music composed by Richard Storrs Willis. The song’s lyrics emphasize peace and goodwill and reflect on the angels’ message of peace to the shepherds on the night of Christ’s birth. “It Came Upon The Midnight Clear” is characterized by …
@ 2007-2024 All Rights Reserved | WrittenMelodies.com
