“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.
“O Heilige Nacht” is the German translation of the Christmas carol “O Holy Night,” which was composed by Adolphe Adam. This piece is part of Weihnachtsbaum which is a suite of 12 pieces written by Franz Liszt in 1873–1876. The original version of “O Holy Night” is already a challenging piece for pianists due to its wide-ranging melodies and emotive content. Liszt’s arrangement …
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 …
“In Dulci Jubilo,” which translates to “In Sweet Rejoicing,” is a traditional German carol that dates back to the 14th century. Its jubilant melody and lively rhythm make it a perfect choice for violinists seeking to showcase their skills while spreading holiday cheer. The piece is characterized by its dance-like quality, combining elements of medieval and Renaissance music with a …
“In the Bleak Midwinter” is a Christmas carol that was written by the English poet Christina Rossetti. It was first published in 1872 as part of a collection of her poems titled “Goblin Market and Other Poems.” The poem has since been set to music by several composers, but the most famous musical setting was composed by Gustav Holst in …
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.
“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.
“I Know That My Redeemer Liveth” is one of the most popular and recognizable movements from Handel’s Messiah. The aria opens with a powerful ascending melody sung by the soprano, conveying a sense of faith and hope. The music shifts between moments of quiet introspection and triumphant pronouncements, reflecting the text’s emotional journey. For pianists aspiring to master “I Know …
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 …
“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.
“God Rest Ye Merry, Gentlemen” has been recorded and performed by numerous artists and choirs over the years and remains a popular and enduring part of the Christmas music tradition. It has also been adapted and arranged in various musical styles and continues to be a favorite during the holiday season. This one is arranged for the flute.
Johannes Brahms’s Eleven Chorale Preludes, Op. 122, stand as one of the final contributions to the composer’s extensive body of work. Composed in the last years of his life (1896), these chorale preludes exhibit a deep introspection and spiritual depth, reflecting Brahms’s mature style. Here is a list of the eleven chorale preludes included in Op. 122: Each of these …
The word “mirliton” refers to a toy kazoo-like instrument made from a paper tube and waxed paper, which produces a buzzing sound. The French translation aptly captures the lighthearted and playful nature of the music and choreography in this part of Tchaikovsky’s ballet classic, The Nutcracker. The music is characterized by its high-pitched, staccato notes, which mimic the sound of mirlitons.
“Ave Maria” in A major is part of his larger work, the “Six Duets for Two Voices and Organ,” Op. 10. This collection includes settings of various sacred texts, and the “Ave Maria” in A major is one of the pieces within this set. These duets were composed in 1858 and showcase Saint-Saëns’s mastery of choral writing and his ability …
“Up on the House Top” is a popular Christmas song that was written by Benjamin Hanby in the 19th century. It’s a cheerful and catchy tune that tells the story of Santa Claus and his reindeer landing on the rooftop to deliver presents to children.
“Christmas in Sicily” is one of the masterpieces of Italian-American composer Pietro Alessandro Yon. Yon was a renowned organist and composer known for his contributions to sacred and holiday music.
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