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 for organ.
“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…
The lyrics for “Hark! The Herald Angels Sing” were written by Charles Wesley, an English hymn writer, and brother of John Wesley, the founder of Methodism. The original text, which…
Peter J. Wilhousky wrote the lyrics and music for “Carol of the Russian Children” in 1936. He is the same composer who adapted the Ukrainian folk chant “Shchedryk” (sometimes spelled…
“Carol of the Bells” is a popular Christmas carol with a distinctive and recognizable melody. The music for this carol was composed by Mykola Leontovych, a Ukrainian composer, in 1914.…
“Angels from the Realms of Glory” is a Christmas carol with lyrics written by Scottish poet James Montgomery and music composed by Henry Thomas Smart. Smart was an English organist,…
The Ave Maria is a traditional Catholic prayer that is a tribute to the Virgin Mary. It’s based on the Annunciation, where the angel Gabriel announced to Mary that she…
Adventlied, Op. 71 is a sacred choral work for mixed voices and orchestra by Robert Schumann, composed in 1848. The text is a poem by Friedrich Rückert, “Dein König kommt…
Gounod’s “L’Angelus” captures the solemnity and reverence of the Angelus prayer through its expressive melodies and harmonies. The title is French for “The Angelus,” and the music aims to convey…
The lyrics for this carol were written by the English hymn writer Isaac Watts. Watts was known for his prolific hymn writing, and “Joy to the World” is one of…
“We Wish You a Merry Christmas” is a traditional English Christmas carol that dates back to the 16th century. It’s a joyful and lively song that’s popular during the holiday…
“The Christmas Song” is a classic Christmas song written by Mel Tormé and Bob Wells. It was first composed in 1945 and has since become one of the most iconic…
“I Heard the Bells on Christmas Day” is a Christmas carol with lyrics written by the American poet Henry Wadsworth Longfellow. The poem was initially composed on December 25, 1863,…
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)…
“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…
“Ding Dong! Merrily on High” is a popular Christmas carol with French origins. The lyrics were written by English composer George Ratcliffe Woodward, and the melody is based on a…
