The Carols of Christmas: A Celebration of the Surprising Stories Behind Your Favorite Holiday Songs, (Hardcover)

Enjoy the holidays in a whole new way as you delve into the fascinating history behind some of the best-loved carols of the Christmas season.

From Andrew Gant, Oxford professor and renowned British composer, The Carols of Christmas is a joyous account of the history behind our favorite carols--from Advent through Epiphany.

Everyone loves a carol--in the end, even Ebenezer Scrooge had a soft spot for them! They have the power to evoke a special type of mid-winter joy, like the aroma of gingerbread or the twinkle of lights on a tree. It's a kind of magic.

But how did they get that magic? Join Andrew Gant--a choirmaster, church musician, university professor, and writer-- and he tells you the captivating, and often surprising, stories behind twenty beloved holiday carols. Along the way you will explore the history of Christmas favorites like:

• O, Christmas Tree
• Hark, the Herald Angels Sing
• Away in a Manger
• The Twelve Days of Christmas
• Jingle Bells
• And many more!

During your journey you will discover answers to some of the biggest questions about these treasured carols, including:

• How did the most beloved carols come to be?
• Why do we sing the versions of carols that we do?
• How did these carols stand the test of time?

A charming and engaging read that brims with anecdotes, expert knowledge, and Christmas cheer, The Carols of Christmas is a fittingly joyous account of one of the best-loved musical traditions that will get you into the holiday spirit.