We have a collection of 12 arrangements for Felix Mendelssohn - Charles Wesley - Hark! The Herald Angels Sing
How did an 18th-century poet and 19th-century composer collaborate on a Christmas classic? Learn!
"Hark! The Herald Angels Sing" is a popular Christmas carol that is often sung during the holiday season. While Felix Mendelssohn did not write the lyrics for this carol, there is an interesting connection between him and the song:
Felix Mendelssohn's Influence: The melody for "Hark! The Herald Angels Sing" is based on a composition by Felix Mendelssohn. He composed a cantata in 1840 called "Festgesang" to commemorate the 400th anniversary of the invention of the printing press by Johannes Gutenberg. The melody in this cantata is what became the basis for the Christmas carol.
Charles Wesley's Lyrics: The lyrics for the carol were written by Charles Wesley, one of the co-founders of the Methodist movement. The original title of the hymn was "Hymn for Christmas Day," and it was published in 1739. The lyrics were later set to Mendelssohn's music.
Wesley's Hymn Collection: The carol was originally part of a collection of hymns written by Charles Wesley. His brother, John Wesley, co-founder of Methodism, also contributed to the collection. Many of their hymns are still sung in churches today.
Altered Lyrics: The original lyrics by Charles Wesley have been modified over the years. The version commonly sung today, with the opening line "Hark! The Herald Angels Sing," was popularized by various hymnal editors who made slight alterations to the lyrics.
Collaboration of Two Greats: The fact that a melody by Felix Mendelssohn and lyrics by Charles Wesley came together to create "Hark! The Herald Angels Sing" is a remarkable example of two great talents from different backgrounds collaborating to create a beloved Christmas carol.
First Performance: The carol's first performance in its familiar form took place in 1855, 15 years after Mendelssohn's death. The lyrics had undergone some changes by then, and it was performed at a concert in Warrington, England.
Today, "Hark! The Herald Angels Sing" is a cherished Christmas carol that is sung in churches and holiday celebrations around the world, and its enduring popularity is a testament to the talents of both Felix Mendelssohn and Charles Wesley.