The History of Christmas music started as Carols that were first sung in Europe thousands of years ago. They were sung at the Winter Solstice celebrations as people danced round stone circles. The Winter Solstice usually takes place around the 22nd December – which is the shortest day of the year. But its important to mention that these celebrations were year around, but the Winter Solstice tended to stand the test of time.

But what does the word Carol mean?
Well, the word Carol actually means “dance or a song of praise and joy”. Its a word that is derived from the Greek word “Choraulein”.

Early Christians wrote and sang Early Christmas Hymns written around the 700’s that were overseen by the Bishops, etc. Soon after this many composers all over Europe started to write carols. Unfortunately, they were unable to sing in Latin as well, and therefore, made it less joyful for them.

But then St. Francis of Assisi started his Nativity Plays in Italy. The songs in these plays were also refered to as ‘canticles’, because they told the story during the plays. Soon enough, the new carols spread to France, Spain, Germany and other European countries!

One of the famous Christmas Carol Collectors was William Sandys. Before carol singing in public became popular, there were sometimes official carol singers called ‘Waits’. They were allowed to sing for money on the streets during Christmas time. Otherwise, it was illegal and they could be charged as beggers. They only sang on Christmas Eve.

With the creation of CD’s and the Printing Press Christmas music became more available and easily accesible. Soon people were able to pass it around, collaborate, and listen to it in their houses, cars, and more! Also, at this time, many orchestras and choirs were being set up in the cities of England and people wanted Christmas songs to sing, so carols once again became popular. Many new carols,such as ‘Good King Wenceslas‘ and George Frederick Handel’s ‘Messiah‘ which can listened to here.

Special thanks to Why Christmas and Bill Petro.

So there you have it – The History of Christmas Music!

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