Carol of the Bells is a Ukrainian Christmas carol that has become a holiday favorite in many parts of the world. With its catchy melody and upbeat rhythm, it has become a staple of Christmas music and is often used in commercials, movies, and TV shows. Despite its widespread popularity, the song has a rich history that is steeped in tradition and symbolism. This article will explore the origins of the Carol of the Bells and its evolution into a beloved Christmas carol.
Carol of the Bells
Sweet silver bells
All seem to say
Throw cares away
Bringing good cheer
To young and old
Meek and the bold
That is the song
With joyful ring
All caroling (Oh, oh, ah)
Words of good cheer
From everywhere (From everywhere)
Filling the air
Raising their sound
O’er hill and dale
Telling their tale
While people sing songs of good cheer
Christmas is here
Merry, Merry, Merry, Merry Christmas
On without end
Their joyful tone
To every home
Ding-dong, ding-dong
Sweet silver bells
All seem to say (All seem to say)
Throw cares away
(We will throw cares away)
Bringing good cheer
To young and old
Meek and the bold
Raising their sound
O’er hill and dale
Telling their tale
While people sing songs of good cheer
Christmas is here
Merry, Merry, Merry, Merry Christmas
On without end
Their joyful tone
To every home
History of Carol of the Bells
Carol of the Bells was originally written as a Ukrainian New Year’s song in 1916 by the Ukrainian composer Mykola Leontovych. The song was based on a Ukrainian folk song and was meant to be a symbol of good luck and prosperity for the coming year. The song was called “Shchedryk” and was about a swallow that brought good news to a wealthy household. The song was so popular that it soon became a tradition for Ukrainian families to sing it on New Year’s Eve.
The song was introduced to the United States in the 1920s by Ukrainian immigrants who brought their traditions and music with them. The song was adapted into a Christmas carol by American composer Peter Wilhousky, who added English lyrics and arranged the melody for choir. This new version of the song was called “Carol of the Bells” and was first performed by the NBC Symphony Orchestra in 1936.
The song quickly became a Christmas favorite and has been recorded by many artists over the years. Today, Carol of the Bells is one of the most recognizable Christmas carols in the world and is performed by choirs, orchestras, and soloists during the holiday season.
Symbolism in Carol of the Bells
Carol of the Bells is a song that is steeped in tradition and symbolism. The bells in the song represent the ringing of church bells on Christmas Eve, which is a symbol of joy and celebration. The lyrics of the song reflect the anticipation and excitement of the Christmas season and the hope that the new year will bring happiness and good fortune.
The repetitive melody and fast-paced rhythm of the song are meant to evoke the feeling of excitement and anticipation that comes with the holiday season. The ringing of the bells in the song is meant to symbolize the joy and excitement that is felt during the Christmas season. The song is a celebration of the holiday season and the hope that it brings.
Popular Versions of Carol of the Bells
Over the years, Carol of the Bells has been recorded by many artists in a variety of styles. Some of the most popular versions of the song include:
“Carol of the Bells” by Trans-Siberian Orchestra
The Trans-Siberian Orchestra is a symphonic metal band that has become known for their elaborate stage shows and elaborate musical arrangements. Their version of Carol of the Bells is a fast-paced, hard-rocking take on the traditional carol that has become a holiday favorite.
“Carol of the Bells” by Mannheim Steamroller
Mannheim Steamroller is a New Age music group that is known for their electronic instrumental arrangements of traditional holiday music. Their version of Carol of the Bells is a fast-paced, electronic take on the song that has become a holiday classic.
“Carol of the Bells” by Pentatonix
Pentatonix is an a cappella group that has become known for their vocal harmonies and arrangements. Their version of Carol of the Bells is a beautiful
