We have a collection of 14 arrangements for Traditional - O Come, O Come Emmanuel
What ancient Latin hymn forms the basis for this beloved Christmas carol? Learn!
"O Come, O Come, Emmanuel" is a traditional Christmas carol with a rich history. Here are some interesting facts about this beloved song:
Ancient Origins: The lyrics of this carol have ancient origins. They are believed to have been inspired by the "O Antiphons," which are a set of seven liturgical antiphons used in Christian prayers in the days leading up to Christmas. Each antiphon begins with "O" and addresses a different aspect of the Messiah.
Latin Chant: The melody used for "O Come, O Come, Emmanuel" is based on a 15th-century Latin chant known as "Veni, Veni, Emmanuel." The Latin lyrics have a slightly different structure but convey the same message of longing for the coming of the Messiah.
Translation: The English lyrics we know today were translated from the Latin by John Mason Neale in the 19th century. Neale was an English hymn writer and scholar who was dedicated to bringing ancient hymns and carols to a wider audience.
Seven Verses: The carol consists of seven verses, each addressing a different Old Testament prophecy about the coming of the Messiah. Each verse begins with a different title for the Messiah, such as "O come, Thou Rod of Jesse," "O come, Thou Key of David," and "O come, Desire of nations."
Advent Hymn: "O Come, O Come, Emmanuel" is often sung during the Advent season, which is the period of preparation and anticipation leading up to Christmas. The themes of hope and longing in the song make it a perfect fit for this season.
Choral Arrangements: Over the years, numerous choral arrangements and adaptations of this carol have been created. It's a favorite among choirs and vocal groups due to its beautiful melody and rich theological content.
Timeless Appeal: Despite being centuries old, "O Come, O Come, Emmanuel" remains a cherished Christmas carol and is sung in churches and homes around the world during the holiday season. Its enduring message of hope and expectation continues to resonate with people of all ages.
So, "O Come, O Come, Emmanuel" is not only a beautiful Christmas carol but also a piece of music with a deep historical and religious significance.