Carol of the Bells

Christmas Carol Lyrics

Hark! how the bells
Sweet silver bells
All seem to say,
"Throw cares away."
Christmas is here
Bringing good cheer
To young and old
Meek and the bold

Ding, dong, ding, dong
That is their song
With joyful ring
All caroling
One seems to hear
Words of good cheer
From ev'rywhere
Filling the air

Oh how they pound,
Raising the sound,
O'er hill and dale,
Telling their tale,
Gaily they ring
While people sing
Songs of good cheer
Christmas is here
Merry, merry, merry, merry Christmas
Merry, merry, merry, merry Christmas

On, on they send
On without end
Their joyful tone
To ev'ry home

(repeat from the beginning)

Ding, dong, ding, dong.

About This Carol

Carol of the Bells is a dazzling piece of Christmas music known for its urgent, cascading melody and choral brilliance. The music originated in Ukraine, where it was first composed in 1914 by Mykola Leontovych as a folk-based choral work called Shchedryk. The original lyrics celebrated the New Year with wishes of prosperity and abundance, tied to an old Slavic legend about a swallow bringing good fortune.

In 1936, American composer and choral conductor Peter J. Wilhousky heard the piece and was inspired to write new English lyrics that captured the sound and spirit of Christmas. His version became Carol of the Bells, transforming a Ukrainian New Year’s song into a thrilling Christmas favorite.

The carol is built around a four-note ostinato - a repeated musical phrase - that gives it a hypnotic, bell-like rhythm. This distinctive motif has made it a favorite for choirs and instrumental ensembles alike. Its dramatic feel lends itself well to both traditional arrangements and modern, cinematic versions.

Over the years, Carol of the Bells has been featured in countless films, commercials, and holiday concerts. Its rich harmonies and driving tempo continue to enchant listeners, making it one of the most powerful and beloved carols of the season.

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