I Heard The Bells On Christmas Day

Music: Calkin, John Baptiste (1827-1905) · Words: Longfellow, Henry Wadsworth (1807-1882) · Press play and watch the score light up — solo any part, slow it down, loop the hard bits. Free.

2 parts on separate tracksSlow-down 50–90%, pitch trueA-B loopPublic domain

Opens the practice studio: score follows the sound, every part on its own track.

Lyrics

1. I heard the bells on Christmas day Their old familiar carols play, And wild and sweet the words repeat Of peace on earth, good will to men.

2. And thought how, as the day had come, The belfries of all Christendom Had rolled along th'unbroken song Of peace on earth, good will to men.

3. Till ringing, singing on its way The world revolved from night to day, A voice, a chime, a chant sublime Of peace on earth, good will to men.

4. And in despair I bowed my head "There is no peace on earth," I said, "For hate is strong and mocks the song Of peace on earth, good will to men."

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Frequently asked questions

Is this free?
Yes — playback, part solo/mute, tempo control and looping are all free, right in the browser. The score and audio are generated from a public domain edition (Open Hymnal Project).
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Is this arrangement public domain?
Yes. Words, music and this edition are public domain, from the Open Hymnal Project. You may sing, perform and share it freely.