“From Heaven Above to Earth I Come” is a Christmas hymn with lyrics attributed to Martin Luther. Luther wrote this hymn in the early 16th century, and it has since become a cherished part of the Christmas musical tradition.
The hymn narrates the story of the Nativity, with an emphasis on the humility and divine purpose of Jesus’ birth. It is often sung in Christian communities during the Christmas season, celebrating the joyous occasion of God becoming incarnate.
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 …
“Angels from the Realms of Glory” is a traditional Christmas carol that is often sung during the holiday season. The lyrics were written by James Montgomery in 1816, and the music is usually set to the tune “Regent Square,” composed by Henry Thomas Smart in 1867.
“O Little Town of Bethlehem” is a popular Christmas carol that has been arranged for various instruments, including the organ. When played on the organ, it typically has a majestic and reverent sound, befitting the solemnity of the Christmas season. The organ arrangement includes rich harmonies and full chords to create a grand and atmospheric rendition of the song.
“The Holly and the Ivy” is a traditional English Christmas carol that dates back to the 18th century, although some sources suggest that it may have even earlier origins. The song is a celebration of the holly and the ivy, two evergreen plants that are often associated with the Christmas season. “The Holly and the Ivy” is a classic Christmas …
Rimsky-Korsakov’s Christmas Eve Suite is a collection of orchestral pieces inspired by Ukrainian and Russian folklore. The suite draws from various traditional tunes, weaving them into a vibrant tapestry of sound that captures the festive spirit of Christmas. The movements are characterized by their rich orchestrations, evocative melodies, and rhythmic vitality, making it a joyous experience for both performers and …
“Silver Bells” is a classic Christmas song written by Jay Livingston and Ray Evans. It was first performed by Bob Hope and Marilyn Maxwell in the 1951 film “The Lemon Drop Kid.” The song is known for its cheerful and festive lyrics, which evoke the joyful atmosphere of the holiday season in a bustling city. The original version of “Silver …
Also known as “See Amid the Winter’s Snow” is often sung in church services, caroling events, and Christmas concerts. Its gentle melody and lyrics capture the reverence and wonder of the Christmas story, making it a cherished carol during the holiday season.
“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 …
“Christmas Postlude,” is a musical composition often played on the organ in churches during the Christmas season. The title “Sit Laus Plena Sit Sonora” is Latin and can be translated as “Let there be full praise, let there be sound.” This suggests that the composition is intended to be a celebratory and joyful piece of music appropriate for the Christmas …
“In Dulci Jubilo” arranged for the Organ. The original text is attributed to Heinrich Seuse, a German mystic, and poet who lived in the 14th century. The song celebrates the joy and happiness of the Christmas season, and it has been performed and recorded by many artists and choirs over the centuries.
Alec Rowley (1892–1958) was a British composer and educator known for his contributions to the world of music. “A Christmas Carol” is one of his most celebrated compositions, offering pianists a musical journey through the joy and warmth of the holiday season. The piece is characterized by its nostalgic melodies and intricate harmonies, creating a vivid musical tapestry that resonates …
The authorship of “Rise Up, Shepherds, and Follow” is not definitively attributed to a single individual, as it is a traditional African-American spiritual that has been passed down through generations. The song tells the story of the shepherds’ journey to witness the birth of Jesus and encourages others to follow in their footsteps. While the technical demands of “Rise Up …
The piece is part of Berlioz’s larger work, the oratorio “L’Enfance du Christ” (The Childhood of Christ). “Sérénade agreste à la Madone” is the final movement of Part II of the oratorio. It depicts the shepherds bidding farewell to the Holy Family as they flee to Egypt. Adapting orchestral compositions for the piano is no easy task, and yet, the …
“German Dance, K.605 No.3” or “Sleigh Ride” or in German “Die Schlittenfahrt” from the set of Three German Dances, K.605 is a lively and festive composition that captures the joyful spirit of a sleigh ride. Arranged for violin.
“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 …
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