Melodies and Motifs: Christmas Carols Quiz

Answer: Silent Night

"Silent Night" was written in the early 1800s in Germany as "Stille Nacht, heilige Nacht." The original was faster than the modern version, and written in 6/8.

Answer: Rudolph, the Red-Nosed Reindeer

Rudolph is a relatively recent invention (compared to other Christmas songs and traditions), created by Robert Lewis May in 1939. The song was released ten years later, in 1949.

Answer: Away in a Manger

As many know, there are two versions of "Away in a Manger." This question used the "Cradle Song" version, more common in Britain. The other version is the "Mueller" version, more popular in the United States, named after the unknown Carl Mueller, even though it was written by James Murray in 1887.

Answer: Carol of the Bells

"Carol of the Bells" has a distinct repeating pattern and a 3/4 time signature. It does have a melody, but relies on interesting chords more than the other tunes in this quiz.

Answer: Joy to the World

"Joy to the World" was written in the early 1700s. There were many versions (tunes) early on.

Answer: The First Noel

"The First Noel" is sometimes spelled "The First Nowell." It is a Cornish (southwest England) song, written around the time the Cornish language was being replaced by English.

Answer: God Rest You Merry, Gentlemen

There is debate whether this title is "God Rest You" or "God Rest Ye." The oldest manuscripts (1600s) should be translated to "you," but even as early as the 1700s, "ye" was being used in some reproductions. Grammatically, "you" makes more sense.

Answer: Hark! The Herald Angels Sing

The original opening lyric for this song was "Hark! How all the Welkin rings." There are different tunes for this song, but the most common one (and the one used in this quiz) was written by Felix Mendelssohn.

Answer: O Come, All Ye Faithful

"O Come, All Ye Faithful" is sometimes known by its Latin name, "Adeste Fideles." It is unclear who wrote the lyrics and notes, but there have been many different attributions across Europe throughout the centuries.

Answer: Jingle Bells

"Jingle Bells" was originally published as "One Horse Open Sleigh" after its opening lyric. It is thought to have the earliest recording of a Christmas song, being recorded on a wax cylinder in the late 1800s.