Historically, two tunes are associated with God Rest Ye Merry, Gentlemen. The first possible printed version of the commonly known version GOD REST YOU MERRY was an instrumental variation by Samuel Wesley (1757-1834), the younger son of Charles Wesley (1707-1788), titled The Christmas Carol, Varied as a Rondo, for the Piano Forte (London, n.d.). It appears that the work was composed in the second decade of the nineteenth century, as a review of it was published in 1815. There are rhythmic variations from the sung version, and the third phrase of the stanza is significantly different from the familiar carol (Glover, 1994, p. 105).
The Oxford Book of Carols (London, 1928) provides two tunes (Nos. 11 and 12). The first version, virtually unknown this side of the Atlantic, is cited as the “usual version” and identified by Routley as “Cornish” (Routley, 1958, p. 89). This was the tune identified by Sandys in his collection. The second version, the one popularly sung today, is listed “as sung in the London streets” (Dearmer, 1928, p. 27). The London tune was collected by E. F. Rimbault (1816-1876), a London organist, and first printed in A Little Book of Christmas Carols, with Ancient Melodies to which they are Sung in Various Parts of the Country (1846) (Firman, Canterbury, n.p.). The melody as we know it was standardized over several publications, a customary process for establishing the commonly known version of a folk tune.
The date of the publication in 1846 may indicate that the less familiar Cornish tune was the melody used in Dickens’s first production of The Christmas Carol (1843). On the other hand, if the commonly known version was being “sung in the London streets” during the decades previous to the publication of the play, then this version may have been used in the performance. From 1919 through 1957, the first two carols sung at the famous Nine Lessons and Carols held on Christmas Eve at King’s College, Cambridge, were “Once in Royal David’s City” and “God Rest You Merry Gentlemen” (Routley, 1958, p. 231).
Pender Joy Ringers performed"God Rest Ye Merry, Gentlemen" – December 1, 2024
Experience the energy and excitement of the Pender Joy Ringers as they perform an exhilarating arrangement of "God Rest Ye Merry, Gentlemen" in a medley with "Sing We Now of Christmas." This performance, from December 1, 2024, captures the spirit of the season with a unique twist on these beloved Christmas tunes.
About this arrangement by Kevin McChesney
This dynamic piece features a predominantly 7/8 meter, giving the traditional melodies a fresh and engaging rhythm. A pulsing, malleted bass line drives the energy throughout, creating an electrifying accompaniment that will leave your audience enthralled and roaring in approval!
Whether you're a handbell enthusiast or simply love Christmas music, this performance is sure to delight and inspire your holiday season.
