The Origins of "Hark the Herald Angels Sing"
When it comes to classic Christmas carols, few are as beloved and widely recognized as "Hark the Herald Angels Sing." With its triumphant melody and timeless lyrics, this hymn has been a staple of holiday celebrations for centuries. But have you ever wondered about the origins of this iconic song? In this article, we'll explore the history of "Hark the Herald Angels Sing" and delve into the meaning behind its lyrics and chords.
The Beginnings of the Hymn
Although "Hark the Herald Angels Sing" is now synonymous with Christmas, its origins can be traced back to the 18th century and a man named Charles Wesley. Wesley, an English clergyman and hymn writer, penned the original lyrics of the hymn in 1739. However, the melody we associate with the song today was not added until several years later.
The Collaboration of Wesley and Mendelssohn
It was not until 1840, over a century after Wesley's original composition, that the melody for "Hark the Herald Angels Sing" was added. The renowned German composer Felix Mendelssohn, who had written a cantata in 1840 to commemorate the invention of the printing press, provided the melody that we know and love today. Mendelssohn's composition, titled "Festgesang," was originally intended to be a secular piece, but it was later adapted to fit Wesley's lyrics and became the melody we now associate with the hymn.
The Meaning Behind the Lyrics
As with many hymns, the lyrics of "Hark the Herald Angels Sing" hold deep religious significance. The opening line, "Hark! The herald angels sing," serves as a call to listen and pay attention to the angels' message. The lyrics go on to celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ and proclaim him as the "newborn King." The hymn reflects the Christian belief in the divine nature of Jesus and his role as the Savior of humanity.
The Chords of "Hark the Herald Angels Sing"
While the lyrics of "Hark the Herald Angels Sing" are well-known, the chords that accompany the hymn are equally important in bringing the song to life. The chords used in this carol are relatively simple, making it accessible for both beginner and experienced musicians. The song is typically played in the key of G major and utilizes basic chords such as G, C, D, and Em.
Playing "Hark the Herald Angels Sing" on Guitar
Guitar Chords for "Hark the Herald Angels Sing"
For those who enjoy playing the guitar, "Hark the Herald Angels Sing" is a wonderful choice for holiday repertoire. Here are the chords you'll need to play this classic carol:
- G chord: This is the main chord used in the song and is played by placing your index finger on the 2nd fret of the 5th string, your middle finger on the 3rd fret of the 6th string, and your ring finger on the 3rd fret of the 1st string.
- C chord: To play a C chord, place your index finger on the 1st fret of the 2nd string, your middle finger on the 2nd fret of the 4th string, and your ring finger on the 3rd fret of the 5th string.
- D chord: The D chord is played by placing your index finger on the 2nd fret of the 3rd string, your middle finger on the 2nd fret of the 1st string, and your ring finger on the 3rd fret of the 2nd string.
- Em chord: To play an Em chord, place your index finger on the 2nd fret of the 5th string, your middle finger on the 2nd fret of the 4th string, and your ring finger on the 2nd fret of the 3rd string.
Strumming Pattern for "Hark the Herald Angels Sing"
Once you've familiarized yourself with the chords, it's time to tackle the strumming pattern. For "Hark the Herald Angels Sing," a simple and effective strumming pattern is the down-up-down-up pattern. Begin by strumming downward on the first beat, then strum upward on the second beat. Repeat this pattern throughout the song, adjusting the speed as desired.
Adding Fingerpicking to "Hark the Herald Angels Sing"
If you're looking to add an extra layer of complexity to your rendition of "Hark the Herald Angels Sing," fingerpicking is a fantastic technique to incorporate. Fingerpicking involves plucking individual strings with your fingers rather than strumming with a pick. Experiment with different fingerpicking patterns to find the one that suits your playing style and adds a unique touch to the song.
Conclusion
"Hark the Herald Angels Sing" is a timeless Christmas carol that continues to captivate audiences year after year. Its origins date back to the 18th century, and the collaboration between Charles Wesley and Felix Mendelssohn brought the hymn to its full glory. The lyrics carry a profound message of the birth of Jesus Christ, while the chords and guitar arrangements make it accessible for musicians of all skill levels. As you practice and perform this classic carol, let its enduring beauty and meaning fill your heart with the true spirit of Christmas.