Ding dong! merrily on high
In heav’n the bells are ringing:
Ding dong! verily the sky
Is riv’n with Angel singing.
Gloria, Hosanna in excelsis!
E’en so here below, below,
Let steeple bells be swungen,
And “Io, io, io!”
By priest and people sungen.
Gloria, Hosanna in excelsis!
Pray you, dutifully prime
Your matin chime, ye ringers;
May you beautifully rime
Your evetime song, ye singers.
Gloria, Hosanna in excelsis!
The Joyful Tale of “Ding Dong! Merrily on High” – A Christmas Carol’s Timeless Charm
When the holiday season rolls around, there’s no shortage of beloved Christmas carols that fill the air with joy and merriment. One such timeless classic is “Ding Dong! Merrily on High.” This festive tune has been a cherished part of Christmas celebrations for generations. In this blog post, we’ll delve into the history of this heartwarming song, exploring its origins, early publications, and highlighting five notable recordings that have left their mark on this holiday staple.
Origins of the Text and Music:
“Ding Dong! Merrily on High” boasts a rich history, with its origins dating back to both text and music. The lyrics for this festive carol are attributed to George Ratcliffe Woodward, an English clergyman and hymn writer. Woodward penned the words in the early 20th century, capturing the essence of Christmas with verses that evoke images of ringing bells and joyful celebrations.
The music for “Ding Dong! Merrily on High” finds its roots in France. The melody, known as “Branle de l’Official” or “Branle des l’Official,” is a traditional French dance tune that can be traced back to the 16th century. The pairing of Woodward’s lyrics with this spirited melody created the perfect recipe for a Christmas classic.
Early Publications:
The carol “Ding Dong! Merrily on High” gained popularity in England in the early 20th century. It was first published in 1924 in a collection of carols titled “Cambridge Carol-Book: Being Fifty-Two Songs for Christmas, Easter, and Other Seasons.” This publication played a significant role in introducing the song to a wider audience and cementing its place in the Christmas canon.
Notable Recordings:
Over the years, “Ding Dong! Merrily on High” has been recorded by countless artists and ensembles, each adding their unique touch to this festive tune. Here are five notable recordings that have left an indelible mark on the song’s legacy:
- The King’s College Choir, Cambridge (1954):
This iconic recording, featuring the soaring voices of the King’s College Choir, captures the song’s ethereal beauty and traditional charm. - Leslie Garrett (1993):
Soprano Leslie Garrett’s rendition infuses the carol with a delightful and spirited performance that continues to captivate listeners. - Rutter’s “Christmas Night” (1980):
Composer John Rutter’s arrangement of “Ding Dong! Merrily on High” is a hallmark of his celebrated Christmas album, “Christmas Night.” - Celtic Woman (2013):
The renowned all-female ensemble Celtic Woman brings a Celtic flair to the carol, blending harmonies and instrumentation that transport listeners to a magical Christmas world. - The Piano Guys (2014):
Known for their innovative musical arrangements, The Piano Guys offer a captivating instrumental rendition that showcases their virtuosity.
“Ding Dong! Merrily on High” continues to enchant audiences with its timeless charm, melding the poetry of George Ratcliffe Woodward with a centuries-old French melody. From its humble origins in a collection of carols to the diverse interpretations by renowned artists, this Christmas carol remains a cherished part of holiday traditions worldwide. As we gather with loved ones each year, the joyful strains of “Ding Dong! Merrily on High” remind us of the magic and merriment that define the Christmas season.
SANTA NYC 