The Music of Christmas

Exploring History

One of the special aspects of Christmas is hearing and singing the same songs, even though we have heard them year after year. Perhaps it is the memories that these songs bring to mind, or the beautiful music these songs contain, or perhaps it is the thrilling message these songs convey. On the latest Exploring History podcast, Ray Notgrass tells the background stories of some of our favorite Christmas hymns, and then you can hear performances of those hymns from different parts of the world.

“Stille Nacht, Heilige Nacht,” by the Clare College Singers
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9p97sxREC00

“Silent Night,” by Bing Crosby
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=moHobaO9TlM
“Joy to the World” by ONE FOR ISRAEL Ministry
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=necamum8MNw
“O Come, O Come, Emmanuel” by Chris Tomlin
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UH7asSGxAxA
“O Come, All Ye Faithful” by Harpa Dei
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=INyKdKCNryI
“O Come, All Ye Faithful” by Nosa and the Lagos Community Gospel Choir
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WjFqXhstjlw
“Hark! The Herald Angels Sing” by Take 6
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8ESDqU_3bOg
“O Little Town of Bethlehem” by The Living Stones Quartet
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=I5hHUPwjTQQ
“Mary, Did You Know?” by the U.S. Army Orchestra, featuring Sgt. Major Christal Rheams
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YHFoT4-tI8g
“Once in Royal David’s City” by the King’s College Chapel Choir, Cambridge University
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PtiCLJvyePw

Homeschool curriculum and resources for all ages: https://notgrass.com/
Supplemental videos, field trips, and other resources: https://homeschoolhistory.com/
Encouragement for homeschool moms: https://charlenenotgrass.com/