We have a collection of 13 arrangements for Traditional - Deck the Halls
What Welsh melody became a global Christmas staple? Learn!
"Deck the Halls" is a popular Christmas carol with Welsh origins. Here are some interesting facts about the song and the tradition of decking the halls:
Welsh Origin: The melody of "Deck the Halls" comes from a traditional Welsh winter carol called "Nos Galan," which means "New Year's Eve." The lyrics we associate with "Deck the Halls" were later added in English.
Ancient Roots: The tune itself can be traced back to the 16th century. The Welsh lyrics date back even further, with some versions possibly originating in the 12th century.
John Ceiriog Hughes: The English lyrics for "Deck the Halls" were written by the Welsh musician John Ceiriog Hughes in the 19th century. Hughes was known for his work in collecting and adapting traditional Welsh folk songs.
Fa-la-la-la-la: The catchy "fa-la-la-la-la" refrain is an example of a "burden," a repetitive and rhythmic section commonly found in medieval songs. It adds a joyful and festive element to the carol.
Yuletide Tradition: The song is all about the festive preparations for Christmas. The lyrics encourage people to deck the halls with boughs of holly, which is a tradition that dates back to ancient times. Holly was believed to have protective powers and was associated with goodwill and joy.
Symbolism of Holly: The use of holly in Christmas decorations has symbolic significance. The prickly leaves represent the crown of thorns, and the red berries symbolize the blood of Christ, making holly a meaningful decoration during the Christmas season.
Adaptations and Covers: "Deck the Halls" has been covered and adapted by numerous artists over the years, spanning various musical genres. It remains a timeless and festive tune that is widely recognized during the holiday season.
Pop Culture References: The song has been featured in numerous movies, TV shows, and commercials, further solidifying its place in popular culture as a quintessential Christmas carol.
Global Popularity: "Deck the Halls" is known and loved around the world. Its festive and upbeat melody makes it a staple during Christmas celebrations in many cultures.
Community and Togetherness: The song emphasizes the communal aspect of the holiday season, encouraging people to come together and celebrate the joy of Christmas by adorning their surroundings with traditional decorations.
"Deck the Halls" remains a beloved and enduring part of the Christmas music repertoire, contributing to the festive atmosphere that surrounds the holiday season.