The Best Classical Christmas Music to Listen to This Holiday Season
It’s the most wonderful time of the year! Get into the holiday spirit with this list of the best classical Christmas music. From traditional carols to Bach’s Christmas Oratorio, these pieces will fill you with the joy of the season.
Best Overall
The season of Advent is a special time in the Christian calendar year. It is a time of hope, preparation, and anticipation for the coming of Christ. What better way to celebrate Advent than with beautiful classical Christmas music? This list includes the best classical Christmas music to listen to this holiday season.
“Ave Maria” by Franz Schubert
The Austrian composer Franz Schubert wrote “Ave Maria” in 1825, based on a poem by the German writer and poet Johann Ludwig Uhland. The piece was originally composed for voice and piano, but has since been adapted for many different instruments and ensembles. “Ave Maria” is one of the most popular pieces of classical Christmas music, and has been recorded by many famous artists including Andrea Bocelli, Celine Dion, Josh Groban, Charlotte Church, and Placido Domingo.
“Messiah” by George Frideric Handel
in addition to being one of the most popular pieces of classical music ever written, “Messiah” is also one of the most recognizable. The work was composed by George Frideric Handel in 1741 and has since become a holiday staple performed by countless orchestras and choirs around the world every year.
“The Nutcracker Suite” by Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky
The “Nutcracker Suite” by Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky is one of the most iconic classical pieces of all time. It’s perfect for getting into the holiday spirit, and it’s sure to please everyone in the family. If you’re looking for a festive and fun piece of classical music to listen to this holiday season, look no further than this beloved classic.
Best for Relaxation
With the hustle and bustle of the holiday season, it can be hard to find time to relax. But what better way to relax than by listening to some of the best classical Christmas music? This type of music is perfect for those who want to sit back, relax, and enjoy the holiday season.
“The Sleigh Ride” by Leroy Anderson
“The Sleigh Ride” is a perfect song to get you in the holiday spirit. The Anderson family had a tradition of singing this song around the Christmas tree. The song was first performed by the Boston Pops Orchestra in 1950, and has been a holiday favorite ever since.
“Coventry Carol” by Traditional
This traditional English folk song dates back to the 16th century, and tells the story of the Massacre of the Innocents. The tune is pleasantly mellow, making it a good choice if you’re looking for classical Christmas music that will help you relax.
“Silent Night” by Franz Gruber
One of the most popular and well-known Christmas carols of all time, “Silent Night” was composed in 1818 by Franz Gruber, with lyrics by Joseph Mohr. The song was written to be performed by a choir at Midnight Mass in Oberndorf bei Salzburg, Austria, and quickly became a holiday favorite around the world.
With its simple yet beautiful melody and touching lyrics, “Silent Night” is the perfect song to listen to when you want to relax and reflect on the meaning of Christmas.
Best for Uplifting Mood
With the Christmas holidays fast approaching, everyone’s thoughts turn to cheer, family, and of course, music. Christmas music is a cherished part of the season for many people, and there are a wide variety of genres to choose from. If you’re looking for something classical, we’ve got you covered. Here are some of the best pieces of classical Christmas music to listen to this holiday season.
“Joy to the World” by George Frederick Handel
One of the most beloved Christmas carols of all time, “Joy to the World” was composed by George Frederick Handel in 1741. The song’s simple message of happiness and goodwill has been a source of inspiration and joy for generations. As you listen to this classical Christmas music classic, let its message of peace and love fill your heart and soul.
“Hark! The Herald Angels Sing” by Felix Mendelssohn
The bright, uplifting opening of this piece has made it a staple of holiday playlists since it was first performed in 1846. It remains one of the most popular pieces of classical Christmas music to this day, and for good reason – its joyful, hope-filled spirit is the perfect antidote to the stress of holiday preparations.
“O Come, All Ye Faithful” by John Francis Wade
One of the most popular Christmas carols of all time, “O Come, All Ye Faithful” was written in the 18th century by Englishman John Francis Wade. The song’s original title was “Adeste Fideles,” and it was first published in 1751.
“O Come, All Ye Faithful” has been performed by a wide variety of artists over the years, including Enya, Celine Dion, Andrea Bocelli, Mariah Carey, and Whitney Houston. The carol is often used in movies and television shows set during the holiday season.
