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Every year on the 25th of December,
Christmas is observed all around the
world. It is a time of merriment and
fun. People exchange gifts and feast
along with their friends and family
members. Christmas parties are held
at many homes and the general spirit
during this occasion is one of festivity
and celebrations. Almost synonymous
to the Christmas festivities is Christmas
music which has, in the present context
become as special as the event itself.
A number of carols and hymns are available
in the markets that tell the story
of the birth of their lord - Jesus
Christ. But like everything else in
this world, Christmas music too has
an interesting history.
Going back to the past, the earliest
chants, litanies and hymns were in
Latin. Too theological for the layman,
in the 13th century, these prayers
were influenced by Francis of Assisi
and hence the first Christmas carols
were formed. The word 'carol' finds
its meaning in the Greek word "Choraulein".
This word stands for an ancient dance
performed to the music of a flute.
With the passage of time, in the Middle
Ages, the English combined these circle
dances with singing. This is when
the term carols came to be used. However,
in the present context, carols denote
a song full of religious significance.
It is worth mentioning here that Oliver
Cromwell, the leader of the British
Commonwealth government had banned
the singing of carols at various pagan
rituals.
While speaking on Christmas party
music, one name that inevitably comes
to our mind is that of George Frederick
Handel. In the summer of 1741, he
had composed 'Messiah'. One of the
masterpieces of Christmas music, this
composition has touched the hearts
of millions around the world throughout
the years. Some of the other evergreen
compositions on Christmas include
Little Drummer Boy, Joy to the World,
Nutcracker Suite, Oh Come Ye All Faithful,
Rudolph, the Red Nosed Reindeer, Silent
Night, and Holy Night.
So take your pick from the above listed
Christmas music and add color to your
Christmas party in style.
For more information on Christmas
or other festivals celebrated around
the world, do visit .
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