A History of Popular Christmas Carols and Songs – BMW of Elmhurst Dealer

December 3rd, 2020 by

Christmas carols have long been part of the holiday season, but most of us don’t know the history of these songs. You’ll discover the history and meaning of Christmas Carols and learn about the people who created them when you attend A History of Popular Christmas Carols and Songs on Monday, Dec. 7, 2020, at 1 p.m. This virtual event, presented by the Elmhurst Public Library, is a fun way to learn about the songs and carols associated with Christmas. At BMW of Elmhurst, we think this will be a great program, and we’re glad the library has been bringing so many virtual events to our community at this time.

A History of Popular Christmas Carols and SongsChristmas carols date back to 4th-century Rome. Some of the earliest examples include Latin hymns written by Ambrose, Archbishop of Milan, such as Veni redemptor gentium. Christmas carols written in English can be traced back to Shropshire chaplain John Awdlay, listed 25 “caroles of Cristemas.” These songs were likely sung by “wassailers,” groups of singers who went from house to house.

Songs that were explicitly used as carols were sung during festivities like harvest tide, as well as on Christmas. Later, Christmas carols would be sung in church. These carols became more popular afterhen they were published in music books in the 19thcentury. Carols that are still sung today appeared in William Sandys’ 1833 compilation, “Christmas Carols, Ancient and Modern.” These include “Hark! The Herald Angels Sing,” “God Rest Ye Merry, Gentlemen” and “The First Noel.”

At A History of Popular Christmas Carols and Songs, you’ll learn about the different melodies and lyrics of Christmas carols and you’ll discover the ways they were used for worship, education, marketing, entertainment and to further political agendas.

Date and Time:
Monday, Dec. 7, 2020, at 1 p.m.

Location:
A History of Popular Christmas Carols and Songs is an online Zoom meeting.

Admission:
Free. Register at https://bit.ly/33ljO8H to get information on how to join.

For More Information:
Contact [email protected].

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