Composer

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Traditional

Average_duration

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3:08

'Hark! The Herald Angels Sing' is a traditional Christmas carol that has been sung for centuries. The exact date of its composition is unknown, but it is believed to have been written in the mid-18th century by Charles Wesley, an English hymn writer. The melody was composed by Felix Mendelssohn in 1840, and the lyrics were later modified by George Whitefield. The carol premiered in the United States in the early 19th century and has since become a staple of Christmas celebrations around the world. It is typically performed in four movements, with each verse building on the previous one to create a sense of anticipation and excitement. The first movement begins with the famous opening line, "Hark! The herald angels sing, 'Glory to the newborn King!'" This verse sets the tone for the rest of the carol, with its joyful proclamation of the birth of Jesus Christ. The second movement focuses on the angels themselves, who are described as "veiled in flesh" and "the Godhead see." This verse emphasizes the miraculous nature of Christ's birth and the role that the angels played in announcing it to the world. The third movement shifts the focus to the shepherds who were visited by the angels on the night of Christ's birth. The verse describes how the shepherds "haste[d] to Bethlehem" to see the newborn King and how they "found Him in a manger laid." This verse highlights the humble circumstances of Christ's birth and the fact that He came to save all people, regardless of their social status. The final movement brings the carol to a triumphant conclusion, with the repeated refrain of "Hark! The herald angels sing, 'Glory to the newborn King!'" This verse celebrates the joy and hope that Christ's birth brings to the world and encourages all people to join in the chorus of praise. Overall, 'Hark! The Herald Angels Sing' is a powerful and uplifting Christmas carol that has stood the test of time. Its combination of beautiful lyrics and stirring melody make it a favorite of both religious and secular audiences alike.

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