The Best Classical Instrumental Christmas Music

“Away in a Manger”

“Away in a Manger” is a Christmas carol traditionally attributed to the English composer James Murray. The lyrics first appeared in print in 1887, in a book titled “Christmas Carols New and Old” compiled by Henry Ramsden Bramley and Sir John Stainer.

The carol is most commonly sung to the tune of either “Cradle Song” or “Mueller”. The lyrical content of the carol focuses on the nativity of Jesus Christ, and it is often used as a lullaby for young children.

There are many different versions of “Away in a Manger”, and it has been adapted into many languages. In some versions, additional verses are added that focus on the theme of Jesus as the redeemer and savior of humanity.

“O Holy Night”

One of the most popular and well-known Christmas carols of all time, “O Holy Night” was composed by Adolphe Adam in 1847. The lyrics, written by Placide Cappeau, are a translation of a poem by Winefride Saunders entitled “Minuit, Chrétiens” (Midnight, Christians). The carol first became popular in France before spreading to the rest of Europe and eventually the world. It has been recorded by some of the most famous singers and musicians over the years, including Mariah Carey, Celine Dion, Pentatonix, Andrea Bocelli, and Josh Groban.

“The First Noel”

The first Noel the angel did say
Was to certain poor shepherds in fields as they lay:
In fields where they lay keeping their sheep,
On a cold winter’s night that was so deep.
Noel, Noel, Noel, Noel,
Born is the King of Israel!

“Hark! The Herald Angels Sing”

“Hark! The Herald Angels Sing” is a popular Christmas carol that was originally written by Charles Wesley in 1739. The carol has been adapted and rearranged by many composers over the years, and it is now a staple of holiday music. The original lyrics to “Hark! The Herald Angels Sing” are as follows:

“Hark! the herald angels sing,
Glory to the newborn King;
Peace on earth and mercy mild,
God and sinners reconciled!”

The carol has been adapted to include many different instruments over the years, but it is typically played on piano or strings. “Hark! The Herald Angels Sing” is a popular choice for classical instrumental Christmas music because of its beautiful melody and uplifting message.

“O Come, All Ye Faithful”

“O Come, All Ye Faithful” is a Christmas carol that has been performed by many artists over the years. The most popular version was released by the English rock band Slade in 1973. The song was written by group members Noddy Holder and Jim Lea and was featured on the band’s sixth studio album, Old New Borrowed and Blue. “O Come, All Ye Faithful” peaked at number two on the UK Singles Chart in December 1973 and has since been covered by numerous artists.

“Jingle Bells”

Jingle Bells is one of the best-known and commonly sung American Christmas songs in the world. It was written by James Lord Pierpont (1822–1893) and published under the title “One Horse Open Sleigh” in the autumn of 1857. It has been claimed that it was originally written to be sung by a Thanksgiving choir, but there is no supporting evidence for this claim. It has been adapted to Christmas many times.

The song plays an important role in the popularization of Christmas music, as it was one of the first secular Christmas songs to gain widespread popularity in America. The tune first achieved widespread popularity when it was used in a minstrel show called “The Virginia Minstrels” in 1859, which helped popularize blackface minstrelsy. The original intent of the song was not specifically Christmas-related, but it achieved great popularity as a Christmas song because of its catchy melody and its simple lyrics, which are easy to sing along with.

Jingle Bells is now considered one of the most iconic and recognizable Christmas songs, and has been recorded by countless artists from all genres, including country, pop, rock, and hip hop.

“Silent Night”

One of the most popular Christmas carols of all time, “Silent Night” was originally composed in 1818 by Franz Xaver Gruber to lyrics by Joseph Mohr. The simple, elegant melody and moving lyrics have helped to make it a timeless classic that continues to be beloved by people around the world. While it has been performed by many different artists over the years, one of the most memorable versions was recorded by English singer-songwriter Kate Bush in 1979.

Conclusion

We hope you enjoyed our guide to the best classical instrumental Christmas music! We hope it helps you get into the festive spirit and enjoy some beautiful classical pieces.

The Best Classical Instrumental Christmas Music

Introduction