Christmas music spans various genres and themes, from religious hymns about the nativity to secular songs featuring Santa Claus and winter traditions
Evolution in the 20th Century
The Great Depression introduced a shift in Christmas songs, moving away from explicit religious themes to embrace more secular Western traditions.
Elvis Presley's Christmas Album
Elvis' Christmas Album (1957) holds the record as the best-selling Christmas album worldwide, emphasizing the enduring popularity of Christmas music.
Widespread Christmas Music Performances
Christmas music is a staple in public concerts, churches, shopping malls, and private gatherings globally, with some radio stations.
Historical Roots of Christmas Music
Christmas music is traced back to 4th-century Rome, evolving through hymns and carols in native languages, notably influenced by Francis of Assisi.
Middle Ages and Christmas Carols
In the Middle Ages, carols emerged in England, combining circle dances with singing. Christmas carols evolved across Europe.
Puritan Prohibition and Revival
During Cromwell's rule, Christmas carol singing was banned as Pagan, but the tradition revived with the restoration of the Stuarts in 1660, gaining royal approval.
Victorian Era Resurgence
The Victorian Era witnessed a surge in Christmas carols, including classics like "Silent Night" and "O Holy Night," reflecting a renewed appreciation for the holiday
Alms Tradition
Singing Christmas carols for charity began in 17th-century England, with town musicians collecting alms. The practice evolved, and carolers continue to solicit gifts.
Church Music Tradition
Advent and Christmastide hold a significant place in church music, with composers from the Baroque era to the present creating cantatas and motets for Christmas celebrations.