We have a collection of 16 arrangements for Alec Mason - God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen (Flute Trio Arrangement)
How did a 16th-century English carol become a global Christmas staple? Learn!
"God Rest Ye Merry, Gentlemen" is a traditional English Christmas carol that dates back to the 18th century or earlier. Here are some interesting facts about the song:
Oldest Known Version: The earliest known printed version of the lyrics appeared in "Three New Christmas Carols," dated to around 1760. However, the song likely existed in oral tradition even before that.
Musical Structure: The song is typically sung in a minor key, which gives it a unique and somewhat haunting quality. This is contrary to many other Christmas carols that are often written in a major key.
Dickens Connection: The carol is mentioned in Charles Dickens' "A Christmas Carol." In the first stave, Scrooge dismissively sings a few lines from the carol when approached by carolers.
Lyric Meaning: The phrase "God Rest Ye Merry" might be a bit confusing to modern listeners. In the context of the time, "rest" meant to keep or make, so the line "God Rest Ye Merry, Gentlemen" essentially means "May God keep you joyful."
Popular Recordings: Over the years, many artists have recorded their versions of "God Rest Ye Merry, Gentlemen," including traditional renditions and more contemporary interpretations. The song's enduring popularity makes it a timeless part of the Christmas music canon.