We have a collection of 34 arrangements for Adolphe Adam - O Holy Night
What Christmas carol was composed by Adolphe Adam and originally written in French? Learn!
Who's behind the notes? Discover Adolphe Adam: Master of Romantic Ballet and Opera
Adolphe Adam was a French composer known for his contributions to the world of classical music and opera. One of his most famous compositions is the Christmas carol "O Holy Night" (also known as "Cantique de Noël" in French). Here are some interesting facts about Adolphe Adam and the beloved carol:
"O Holy Night" Origin: Adolphe Adam composed the music for "O Holy Night" in 1847, setting it to the lyrics of the French poem "Minuit, chrétiens" (Midnight, Christians) written by Placide Cappeau. It was originally intended for the French opera stage.
An Opera Composer: Adam was primarily known for his operas, and he composed over 70 of them during his lifetime. Despite his success in opera, "O Holy Night" remains his most enduring and celebrated work.
Controversial Lyrics: Placide Cappeau, the lyricist of "O Holy Night," was a wine merchant and not a devout Christian. Furthermore, he was an outspoken critic of the Catholic Church. This caused some controversy when the carol was first introduced, but its musical beauty and message of hope prevailed.
First Performance: "O Holy Night" was first performed on Christmas Eve in 1847, in Roquemaure, France, with the music composed by Adolphe Adam. It was originally sung by the opera singer Emily Laurey.
Early American Popularization: "O Holy Night" gained popularity in the United States when it was translated into English by John Sullivan Dwight in 1855. His translation is the one most commonly used today.
First Recording: The first known recording of "O Holy Night" was made by the inventor of the phonograph, Thomas Edison, in 1906. This recording helped further popularize the carol.
The Christmas Truce: During World War I, a famous Christmas truce occurred in 1914 when British and German soldiers sang "O Holy Night" together in the trenches, emphasizing the carol's message of peace and goodwill.
Adolphe Adam's Legacy: Although Adolphe Adam composed many operas during his lifetime, "O Holy Night" remains the piece for which he is most remembered. It has become a timeless and cherished Christmas carol, loved by people all over the world.
Covers and Performances: "O Holy Night" has been covered by numerous artists and remains a popular choice for singers and choirs during the holiday season. Its emotional and spiritual depth continues to resonate with listeners.
Royalties Donation: Adolphe Adam, who passed away in 1856, never received substantial royalties for "O Holy Night" during his lifetime. In 2015, a French television station paid tribute to him by donating royalties from the carol to his descendants.
"O Holy Night" has endured for more than a century and a half, transcending language and cultural barriers to become a beloved Christmas classic that continues to inspire and uplift people during the holiday season.