Merry Christmas 2024 Songs: From Silent Night to Feliz Navidad, here are top carols to light up your celebrations
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O Holy Night
In 1847, Placide Cappeau, a wine merchant from southern France, was asked by a parish priest to compose a festive poem to celebrate the church organ’s renovation. Inspired by the occasion, Cappeau sought the help of his friend, Adolphe Charles Adams, to create the music. The resulting carol reflects on the birth of Jesus and humanity’s redemption.
Silent Night
First written in German as «Stille Nacht» in 1818, this beloved carol was composed by Franz Xaver Gruber with lyrics by Joseph Mohr. Its English translation followed in 1859. Famously, «Silent Night» was sung by both English and German troops during the Christmas Truce of 1914 in World War I, symbolizing peace amid conflict.
In the Bleak Midwinter – Gustav Holst Version
This carol originates from a poem by Christina Rossetti, written before 1872 in response to a request for a Christmas piece. It was later included in The English Hymnal in 1906, with music by Gustav Holst, and became a cherished part of Christmas traditions.
In the Bleak Midwinter – Harold Darke Version
A choral staple, Harold Edward Darke’s arrangement of «In the Bleak Midwinter» is widely celebrated. While Holst’s version remains popular, Darke’s is a favourite among choirs, including the renowned King’s College, Cambridge, where it is performed annually.
Jingle Bells
Originally written by James
