We have a collection of 6 arrangements for Felix Mendelssohn - Charles Wesley - Hark! The Herald Angels Sing
Who adapted Felix Mendelssohn's melody to fit Charles Wesley's Christmas hymn? Learn!
"Hark! The Herald Angels Sing" is a popular Christmas carol with an interesting history:
Origin: The song originated from a hymn written by Charles Wesley, the brother of John Wesley, who co-founded the Methodist movement. The original hymn was titled "Hark, how all the welkin rings" and was published in 1739.
Musical Adaptation: The lyrics of the hymn were later adapted by George Whitefield, another prominent figure in the Methodist movement, and then further modified by various composers over the years. The version we know today is generally credited to Felix Mendelssohn, who composed a cantata in 1840 that included a melody known as "Festgesang," which was later paired with the lyrics of "Hark! The Herald Angels Sing."
Mendelssohn's Reservations: Interestingly, Mendelssohn initially composed "Festgesang" to commemorate Johann Gutenberg's invention of the printing press rather than for Christmas. Mendelssohn had reservations about the melody being used for sacred texts, but it gained popularity as a Christmas carol nonetheless.
Notable Performances: "Hark! The Herald Angels Sing" has been performed by numerous artists and groups over the years. One of the most famous renditions is by the English composer and conductor Sir David Willcocks, whose arrangement is widely used in Christmas carol services.
Influence on Christmas Traditions: The carol has become a staple of Christmas celebrations around the world, and its uplifting melody and timeless lyrics contribute to the festive atmosphere of the holiday season.
"Hark! The Herald Angels Sing" is a fascinating blend of historical origins, musical adaptations, and enduring popularity within the Christmas tradition.