We have a collection of 11 arrangements for Traditional Welsh - Thomas Oliphant - Deck the Halls
What ancient Welsh melody hides behind the cheerful "fa la la" refrains? Learn!
"Deck the Halls" is a popular Christmas carol that dates back to the 16th century. Here are some interesting facts about this festive song:
Welsh Origins: The melody of "Deck the Halls" is believed to have originated from a Welsh New Year's carol called "Nos Galan." The tune was later adapted and became associated with Christmas.
Lyric Variations: The lyrics we commonly sing today, "Deck the halls with boughs of holly, fa-la-la-la-la, la-la-la-la," are from a 19th-century English version. The original Welsh lyrics were quite different.
"Fa-La-La-La-La": The famous "fa-la-la-la-la" refrain in the song doesn't have any specific meaning. It's called a "burden" and was used in medieval songs as a kind of vocal filler.
Popularization: "Deck the Halls" gained popularity in the United States in the 19th century and has since become one of the most beloved Christmas carols worldwide.
Frequent Use: This carol has been featured in numerous movies, TV shows, and commercials during the holiday season, making it a recognizable and cherished part of Christmas culture.
Variety of Artists: Many artists have recorded their versions of "Deck the Halls," adding their unique styles to the song. This has contributed to its enduring popularity.
Merry and Bright: The song's lyrics capture the joy and festivity of the Christmas season, encouraging people to deck their homes with festive decorations and enjoy the company of loved ones.
"Deck the Halls" is a timeless holiday classic that continues to bring festive cheer to people around the world during the Christmas season.