Music for Pianos

Christmas Carols

"Make we merry, both more and less, for now is the time of Chris-te-mas!"

15th century English Carol

The custom of celebrating Christmas with songs is as as old as Christianity itself.  The very first carol was sung by the angelic choir over the hills of Judea to announce the birth of the Child: "Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men."  To be sure, these songs were not always carols.  During the first centuries of our Christian era they were strictly devotional hymns, but from the 13th century on, under the influence of the great humanitarian, St. Francis of Assisi, Christmas music acquired a more lighthearted, secular character.

The word "carol" means many things today - joy, singing, devotion, holiday spirit and even dancing.  This page provides abundant material for all Yuletide music making:  singing in family groups, schools, churches and an inspiring repertoire for pianists, organists and guitar-strummers.  The Music for Pianos Christmas Page contains some of the best loved carols, hymns, Christmas songs, and instrumental solo pieces by the masters.