“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 16th-century French dance tune. The title of the carol is derived from the sound of bells, which is often associated with the Christmas season.
“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 …
“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 Chorus of Shepherds is part of Reinecke’s larger body of work, which often drew inspiration from nature and storytelling. In this particular piece, Reinecke invites pianists to paint a musical picture of shepherds gathering in the countryside, their simple melodies echoing through the air. The composition is characterized by its light-hearted and joyful atmosphere, with cascading arpeggios and graceful …
Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky’s “Waltz of the Snowflakes” is a mesmerizing piece of classical music that captures the enchantment and beauty of winter. Originally composed for the ballet “The Nutcracker,” this waltz has become a timeless favorite, evoking images of swirling snowflakes dancing in a winter wonderland. The “Waltz of the Snowflakes” is part of the second act of “The Nutcracker” …
The English lyrics for “Carol of the Bells” were written by Peter J. Wilhousky in 1936. Wilhousky’s version of the song tells the story of the bells announcing the arrival of Christmas. The melody for “Carol of the Bells” is derived from a Ukrainian folk chant called “Shchedryk” (sometimes spelled “Shchedrik”), which was composed by Mykola Leontovych in 1916. The …
“Fum, Fum, Fum” is a traditional Christmas carol that originated in Catalonia, a region in northeastern Spain. The lyrics of the carol are simple and joyful. The word “fum” means “smoke” in Catalan, and the repeated “fum, fum, fum” in the song is often interpreted as an onomatopoeic representation of a drum or a strumming sound. The carol typically celebrates …
“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 …
“Cathedral Windows” Op. 106, composed in 1914, showcases Karg-Elert’s innovative approach to harmonies, textures, and registrations. “Cathedral Windows” is a set of six pieces, each named after a specific stained glass window in a cathedral. Karg-Elert employs rich harmonies, intricate counterpoint, and expressive melodic lines to evoke the majestic and contemplative atmosphere of these imagined windows. The movements are titled: …
“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, composer, and conductor known for his hymn tunes. The carol was first published in 1816 in Montgomery’s newspaper, the Sheffield Iris, under the title “Nativity.” The lyrics of the carol …
“What Child Is This?” is a traditional Christmas carol set to the tune of “Greensleeves.” Since the piece has a flowing, lyrical quality, aim for smooth, connected bow strokes. Use a full bow for longer notes and maintain even pressure. If you’re comfortable with vibrato, use it to add warmth and expression to longer notes. However, don’t overdo it; subtlety …
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.
“Winter Wonderland” is a popular Christmas song written by Felix Bernard and Richard B. Smith. It was first published in 1934 and has since become a classic holiday tune. The song paints a festive picture of a winter scene and captures the joy and magic of the holiday season. The original version of “Winter Wonderland” is well-suited for pianists with …
“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 …
Tchaikovsky’s Nutcracker Overture is a timeless masterpiece that has captivated audiences for generations. While commonly associated with orchestral performances, this enchanting composition can also be brought to life on the piano, offering pianists a chance to immerse themselves in the magical world created by Tchaikovsky. The Nutcracker Overture serves as the opening piece for Tchaikovsky’s famous ballet, “The Nutcracker.” Its …
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 …
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