Mykola Leontovych's "Shchedryk," composed in 1916 based on an ancient Ukrainian chant, is better known by its English title "Carol Of The Bells" and has become a famous Christmas carol.
Cultural Impact
The practice of 'wassailing' or carol singing in England, where amateur choristers sing in the streets, has roots in the Middle Ages.
Historical Context
In Puerto Rico, Christmas celebrations last for six weeks, starting in late November and continuing until late January with a large street festival in San Juan.
Cultural Impact
The song "Rudolph, The Red Nosed Reindeer" was inspired by a 1939 colouring book that became a bestseller in the United States, prompting Johnny Marks to set the story to music.
Cultural Impact
The song "Jingle Bells," composed in 1850, is one of the most famous carols but strictly speaking has nothing Christmassy about it, depicting a wild ride in a 'one-horse open sleigh'.
Interpretation
German Brass's recording of Christmas music highlights how harmoniously brass instruments convey the season's joy and atmosphere, with festive trumpets, warm horns, sonorous trombones, and velvety tuba sounds.
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