History of Christmas Music

Christmas music – carols and popular songs written over many centuries with words translated into many languages – is enjoyed around the world. Whether an instrumental arrangement played by a brass band, or a sing-along, this music offers a universal language for people everywhere.

One of the most popular Christmas songs is Jingle Bells, written by American James L. Pierpont. The song was originally titled One Horse Open Sleigh; it was written for a Sunday School program in 1857.

Want to know the history behind some popular Christmas songs? Ask your local library to borrow:

Merry Christmas, Baby: Holiday Music from Bing to Sting, written by Dave Marsh and Steve Propers, published by Little, Brown and Co., in 1993.

German Saying-of-the-Day

Hört die Pauken und Trompeten
- und das Christkind spielt die Flöten

Hear the trumpets and drums prelude
– and Christkindl playing the flute

Here's a fun challenge: Follow us on Facebook and Instagram and share your version of our German Saying-of-the-day. Plus, WIN an EAT l STAY l PLAY valued at $500. Read more.

The Polka Maestre Band

Today's Concert features their performance at Christkindl Market in 2019

Polka Maestre Band uses a full midi button accordion and plays many styles and genres with an emphasis on Polka-Waltz Oberkriner style. Anthony has been playing for 26 years and performs various configurations from Solo, Duo Trio, or 6-piece band.

They are a Kitchener-based band and have performed in the USA and Canada, opening the Polka Hall of Fame Show 2016 in Cleveland, Ohio at the USA’s largest polka event and at numerous events from Oktoberfests to weddings, corporate parties and military bases. You've probably enjoyed their music at Oktoberfest, which is one of the busiest times of the year for the band. They performed at the Western fair in London for two days as well as various venues around Ontario.

Learn more about The Polka Maestra Band: Website, YouTube, Audioboom.