Introduction
- “Silent Night” (“Stille Nacht” in its original German) is one of the most well-known traditional Christmas carols sung around the world.
- It was written in 1818 by Franz Xaver Gruber, an Austrian priest and schoolteacher, and Joseph Mohr, an Austrian parish priest.
- The song was first performed on Christmas Eve 1818 in Oberndorf bei Salzburg, Austria.
- It has been translated into more than 300 languages and dialects.
History
- The origins of “Silent Night” are somewhat unclear.
- It is believed that Gruber wrote the melody in 1818, while Mohr wrote the lyrics.
- The song was first performed on Christmas Eve 1818 in Oberndorf bei Salzburg, Austria.
- It was not published until 1822, when it appeared in a collection of songs by Gruber.
- The song quickly became popular throughout Austria and Germany.
- In 1859, it was translated into English by John Freeman Young.
- The English translation became the most popular version of the song.
Composition
- “Silent Night” is a simple, four-part chorale.
- The melody is in the key of G major.
- The lyrics are in the form of a dialogue between two angels.
- The first angel sings of the birth of Jesus, while the second angel sings of the peace that he brings.
Significance
- “Silent Night” is one of the most well-known and beloved Christmas carols in the world.
- It is often sung at Christmas Eve services and other holiday celebrations.
- The song has been recorded by many artists, including Bing Crosby, Elvis Presley, and Mariah Carey.
- “Silent Night” is a symbol of peace and hope, and it is often used to promote goodwill during the holiday season.
Sources
[Wikipedia article on “Silent Night”](wikipedia.org)
Watch “Christmas Songs – Silent Night” On YouTube:
Christmas Songs – Silent Night (Lyrics):
[Verse 1]
Silent night, holy night
All is calm, all is bright
Round yon Virgin, Mother and Child
Holy Infant so tender and mild
Sleep in heavenly peace
Sleep in heavenly peace
[Verse 2]
Silent night, holy night
Shepherds quake at the sight
Glories stream from heaven afar
Heavenly hosts sing Alleluia
Christ the Savior is born
Christ the Savior is born
[Verse 3]
Silent night, holy night
Son of God, love’s pure light
Radiant beams from Thy holy face
With the dawn of redeeming grace
Jesus Lord, at Thy birth
Jesus Lord, at Thy birth
