The iconic Christmas carol! Here's a comprehensive article about the song, along with its lyrics.
"Hark, the Herald Angels Sing" may be a classic, but "Carol of the Bells" is a hauntingly beautiful winter song that has captured the hearts of many. The song's unique melody and harmonies have made it a staple of holiday playlists and concerts alike. In this article, we'll delve into the history of "Carol of the Bells," its lyrics, and what makes it so special.
History of Carol of the Bells
"Carol of the Bells" is based on a traditional Ukrainian folk chant, "Shchedryk," which dates back to the early 20th century. The song was written by Ukrainian composer Mykola Leontovych in 1916, and its original title translates to "Ring, Ring, Ring, the Bells." Leontovych's work was heavily influenced by Ukrainian folk music, and "Shchedryk" is no exception.
The song gained popularity in the 1920s, and its melody was later adapted and arranged by Peter J. Wilhousky, an American composer, in 1936. Wilhousky's arrangement is the one most commonly known today, and its English lyrics were written by Wilhousky himself.
Lyrics and Meaning
So, what do the lyrics of "Carol of the Bells" mean? The song's text is somewhat abstract, but it essentially tells the story of a festive and joyful atmosphere, evoking the sounds and spirit of the holiday season. The lyrics speak of bells ringing, calling out to one another, and the celebration of the new year.
Here are the lyrics to "Carol of the Bells":
Hark, how the bells, sweet silver bells All seem to say, "Throw cares away" Yule-tide carols being sung by a choir And wild and sweet, the words repeat Of peace on earth, goodwill to men Hark, how the bells, sweet silver bells All seem to say, "Throw cares away" Yule-tide carols being sung by a choir And wild and sweet, the words repeat Of peace on earth, goodwill to men
Frosty wind made moan, earth stood hard as iron Water like a stone, snow had fallen, snow on snow Snow on snow, in the bleak midwinter Long ago, prophets knew, a heavenly child would come Unto his own, a son would be given And Lo, the angel of the Lord came upon them And the glory of the Lord shone 'round about them
Hark, how the bells, sweet silver bells All seem to say, "Throw cares away" Yule-tide carols being sung by a choir And wild and sweet, the words repeat Of peace on earth, goodwill to men
Bing-bong, bing-bong, that is their song With carols and the jingle of sleigh bells Tis the season to be jolly and bright Deck the halls with boughs of holly Fa la la la la, la la la la Tis the season to be jolly and bright
Why Carol of the Bells is Special
"Carol of the Bells" is a unique and captivating song that has stood the test of time. Here are some reasons why it's so special:
- Haunting melody: The song's melody is instantly recognizable, with a haunting quality that sends shivers down the spine.
- Harmonies: The harmonies in "Carol of the Bells" are some of the most beautiful and intricate in all of Christmas music.
- Winter atmosphere: The song perfectly captures the magic and wonder of the winter season, evoking images of snow-covered landscapes and festive celebrations.
- Timeless appeal: Despite being written over a century ago, "Carol of the Bells" remains a timeless classic, enjoyed by audiences around the world.
Arrangements and Covers
"Carol of the Bells" has been arranged and covered by countless artists over the years, each putting their own unique spin on the song. Some notable arrangements include:
- Trans-Siberian Orchestra: Their version of "Carol of the Bells" is a rock-influenced take on the classic, featuring electric guitars and a driving beat.
- Pentatonix: The a cappella group's arrangement of "Carol of the Bells" features stunning vocal harmonies and a beautiful, stripped-down approach to the song.
- Classical versions: Many classical artists have recorded "Carol of the Bells," including the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra and the Choir of King's College, Cambridge.
Conclusion
"Carol of the Bells" is a beloved holiday classic that has captured the hearts of audiences around the world. Its haunting melody, beautiful harmonies, and timeless appeal make it a must-listen during the winter season. Whether you're a fan of traditional arrangements or modern covers, "Carol of the Bells" is a song that is sure to delight and inspire.
Who wrote the original version of "Carol of the Bells"?
+The original version of "Carol of the Bells" was written by Ukrainian composer Mykola Leontovych in 1916.
What is the meaning of the lyrics in "Carol of the Bells"?
+The lyrics of "Carol of the Bells" tell the story of a festive and joyful atmosphere, evoking the sounds and spirit of the holiday season.
Who arranged the most well-known version of "Carol of the Bells"?
+The most well-known version of "Carol of the Bells" was arranged by Peter J. Wilhousky in 1936.
We hope you enjoyed this article about "Carol of the Bells"! Do you have a favorite version or arrangement of the song? Let us know in the comments below.