"Carol of the Bells" originated as the Ukrainian folk chant "Shchedryk," composed by Mykola Leontovych in 1914. Its iconic melody symbolizes the arrival of spring and later became associated with Christmas.
"Carol of the Bells" is a popular Christmas carol based on the Ukrainian folk melody "Shchedryk" composed by Mykola Leontovych in 1914. The English lyrics were later added by Peter J. Wilhousky. John Williams' iconic arrangement for the "Home Alone" soundtrack (1990) popularized it in Western culture.
Originally composed as "Shchedryk" in 1914, this haunting winter melody was adapted into the English-language "Carol of the Bells" in 1936. Its distinctive four-note ostinato has made it one of the most recognizable Christmas pieces worldwide.
