Christmas Carol Music

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We cannot think about a Christmas without parties, lighting, decorations, candles, well-decked Xmas tree and music. Singing and listening to Christmas Carol music during Christmas festive is a tradition. People throughout the world follow various Christmas traditions. Decorating the dwellings with lighting and candles can be said as an integral part of the Christmas carnival.

Origin of the word Carol

Since the beginning, music was marked as the feature of the Christmas celebration. But the initial litanies, hymns and chants were in Latin. They were too theological for common use. During the 13th century, Carol was written in the dialect under persuade of Francis of Assisi. The word Carol or Carole has some specific meaning. It is a medieval word from Anglo-Norman, Greek and French origin, which refers to dance song or a singing allied with circular dance form. Carols are Christmas songs which are inclusive of the Christmas stories in them.

During the Middle Era, the English blended singing with circle dances and called the Carols. Anon, the word carol was considered as a song in which religious themes are expressed in style that seems festive and familiar. It originated in Greece, then from Italy, it passed towards Germany and France and later to England. Everywhere, it retained vehemence simplicity and mirthfulness. Christmas Carol music become one of the finest tributes to Christmas, and involves some of the gracious compositions of the great musicians. These musical songs express the joy and merriment associated with the Christmas season. Carols are also allied with the description of late medieval English songs on various topics with refrain and rhyme. Often the refrain and poetry alternates. Christmas Carol music is considered as a part of celebration and tradition.

History of Carols

It is vague when the first Carol came into existence but it is assumed that circa 1350 to 1550 is the golden era when the English Carols were written. Most of the carols follow the refrain and rhyme pattern. During the 14th century, Christmas carol music and songs became a part of religious music form. The themes of these songs often revolved around the Christ child, Saints or the Virgin Mary. They were sung by blending two languages (Latin and English).

By the beginning of the 15the century, the carols were considered as art music. The singers who sung these songs were called as Carolers. 15th century was the time when the elaborate arrangements were planned and Carols were perceived as a significant contribution to English medieval music. A court songbook which featured carols (The Fayrfax Manuscript), was written by the end of 15th century. Themes of these songs were mostly based on the Passion of Christ and they were written for 4 or 5 voices. During the 16th century, popularity of the carols was wavered, but it was not totally disappeared. Again in the 18th century, the trend of Christmas carol music was revived and most of the carols that we listen now were written during this era.

Where to find Christmas carol music?

Previously, the carolers used to sing these rhymes; they used to go from one to another to sing these carols during this festival. Tradition of listening and singing carols is still continued, but you cannot find the carolers. Christmas carols are played in every home and church during Christmas. These days, you can find the carols in CDs, DVDs, and books. Get DVDs from the shop, and learn, listen and celebrate the occasion. Range of stores can be found online where you can get your favorite Christmas carol music CDs and DVDs. Get the series of Christmas carol music from the market and add joy and happiness in your celebration.