Hark The Herald Angels Sing is a beloved Christmas carol that has been enjoyed by people around the world for centuries. The song's rich history, combined with its timeless message of joy, love, and redemption, make it a staple of holiday celebrations everywhere.
Written by Charles Wesley in 1739, Hark The Herald Angels Sing was originally intended to be a hymn, not a Christmas carol. However, its powerful message and soaring melody have made it a Christmas classic, with countless recordings and performances around the world.
The History of Hark The Herald Angels Sing
Hark The Herald Angels Sing was written by Charles Wesley, the brother of John Wesley, the founder of Methodism. The hymn was originally titled "Hymn for Christmas-Day" and was published in Wesley's collection of hymns called "Hymns and Sacred Poems."
The song's melody, however, was not written by Wesley. Instead, it was composed by Felix Mendelssohn, a German composer, in 1840. Mendelssohn's melody was originally written for a different hymn, but it was later paired with Wesley's lyrics to create the version of Hark The Herald Angels Sing that we know today.
How Hark The Herald Angels Sing Became a Christmas Classic
So how did Hark The Herald Angels Sing become a Christmas classic? The answer lies in its powerful message and soaring melody. The song's lyrics, which speak of the birth of Jesus Christ and the joy and love that he brings, resonate deeply with people of all ages and backgrounds.
The song's melody, meanwhile, is equally iconic. Mendelssohn's composition features a soaring chorus and a lilting verse, making it easy to sing along to. The song's melody has also been used in countless other contexts, from films and TV shows to commercials and sporting events.
The Lyrics of Hark The Herald Angels Sing
Here are the lyrics to Hark The Herald Angels Sing:
Verse 1: Hark! The herald angels sing, "Glory to the newborn King; Peace on earth, and mercy mild, God and sinners reconciled!"
Chorus: Joyful, all ye nations rise, Join the triumph of the skies; With th' angelic host proclaim, "Christ is born in Bethlehem!"
Verse 2: Christ, by highest heaven adored; Christ, the everlasting Lord! Late in time behold Him come, Offspring of a Virgin's womb.
Chorus: Joyful, all ye nations rise, Join the triumph of the skies; With th' angelic host proclaim, "Christ is born in Bethlehem!"
Verse 3: Hail the heav'n-born Prince of Peace! Hail the Sun of Righteousness! Light and life to all He brings, Ris'n with healing in His wings.
Chorus: Joyful, all ye nations rise, Join the triumph of the skies; With th' angelic host proclaim, "Christ is born in Bethlehem!"
The Significance of Hark The Herald Angels Sing
Hark The Herald Angels Sing is more than just a Christmas carol - it's a powerful expression of the joy, love, and redemption that Jesus Christ brings. The song's message of peace on earth and mercy mild is one that resonates deeply with people of all ages and backgrounds.
The song's melody, meanwhile, is a masterclass in composition. Mendelssohn's soaring chorus and lilting verse make it easy to sing along to, while the song's harmony and counterpoint add depth and complexity to the melody.
How to Sing Hark The Herald Angels Sing
Singing Hark The Herald Angels Sing can be a fun and rewarding experience, whether you're singing with friends and family or performing in a choir or church group. Here are some tips for singing the song:
- Start by practicing the melody. Listen to recordings of the song and try to mimic the melody. Pay attention to the pitch, tone, and rhythm of the song.
- Once you feel comfortable with the melody, practice the harmony. Listen to recordings of the song and try to mimic the harmony parts.
- Pay attention to your breath control. Take deep breaths and try to sustain the notes as long as possible.
- Practice, practice, practice! The more you practice, the more comfortable you'll become with the song.
Printable Version of Hark The Herald Angels Sing Lyrics
Here is a printable version of the lyrics to Hark The Herald Angels Sing:
[Insert printable lyrics here]
Conclusion
Hark The Herald Angels Sing is a beloved Christmas carol that has been enjoyed by people around the world for centuries. Its powerful message of joy, love, and redemption, combined with its soaring melody, make it a staple of holiday celebrations everywhere.
Whether you're singing the song with friends and family or performing in a choir or church group, Hark The Herald Angels Sing is a fun and rewarding experience. With its rich history, timeless message, and iconic melody, it's no wonder that this song has become a Christmas classic.
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FAQ Section:
Who wrote Hark The Herald Angels Sing?
+Hark The Herald Angels Sing was written by Charles Wesley in 1739.
What is the melody of Hark The Herald Angels Sing?
+The melody of Hark The Herald Angels Sing was composed by Felix Mendelssohn in 1840.
Why is Hark The Herald Angels Sing a Christmas classic?
+Hark The Herald Angels Sing is a Christmas classic because of its powerful message of joy, love, and redemption, combined with its soaring melody.