12 Christmas Carols with Sheet Music

What better way to dive into the magic of the holiday season than through music? Nothing capture the joyful spirit of this season quite like Christmas carols. The tradition of caroling started back in medieval times, when small groups would go from house to house or in public squares singing these songs to bring people together during the cold winter months. Today, singing these timeless songs that have been passed down through generations is a way to bring people together through music and bring cheer and warmth to their homes. Many of these songs are rooted in religious themes associated to the catholic holiday of Christmas.

Are you ready to spread the cheer and get into the holiday spirit? In this article, we’ll highlight some of the most beloved Christmas carols that everyone should know. Whether you want to sing along, play them on your instrument, or simply find new music to listen to this holiday season, we’ve got you covered! Download the Metronaut App to access sheet music for all levels, from beginner to advanced, and play along with dynamic accompaniments that adapt to your tempo in real-time. You can also check out our complete collection of Christmas Carols Sheet Music or the best of Classical Music Sheet Music for Christmas!

1. "O Holy Night" by Adolphe Adam

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Composed in 1847 by French composer Adolphe Adam, "O Holy Night" is one of the most classic Christmas carols. The lyrics were written by Placide Cappeau, a wine merchant and poet, as a reflection on the birth of Christ. He wrote it in honor of renovations in his local church, and the song was premiered at the Midnight Mass on Christmas Eve. Since then, the song has been recorded by famous singers in various genres, such as opera singer Luciano Pavarotti, Nat King Cole, and Mariah Carey. This Christmas staple is most known for its soaring melody and dramatic build-up.

2. "Silent Night" by Franz Xaver Gruber

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The iconic "Silent Night" was composed in 1818 by Franz Xaver Gruber with lyrics by Joseph Mohr, an Austrian priest and writer. Similarly to "O Holy Night", its first performance was on Christmas Eve 1818 in an Austrian church. The first performance allegedly had a guitar accompaniment, due to the church's damaged organ. Its serene and calming melody, paired with simple lyrics that reflect the music, has made it one of the most beloved carols worldwide. In fact, in 2011 it was declared an intangible cultural heritage by UNESCO!

3. "Hark! The Herald Angels Sing" by Felix Mendelssohn

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To make the carol "Hark! The Herald Angels Sing" we know and love today, in 1855 British organist William Hayman Cummings combined music composed by Felix Mendelssohn in 1840 in his "Gutenberg Cantata" with lyrics written by Charles Wesley in a hymn in the 18th century. This perfect puzzle of music from different origins and centuries is beloved for its joyous and triumphant tone.

4. "The Twelve Days of Christmas"

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First believed to have published in the 18th century as a memory game for children, "The Twelve Days of Christmas" is a fun and festive song for the Christmas season. The lyrics list gifts received over the period of the twelve days of Christmas, from the 25th of December to the new year. On each verse, you have to keep on adding the new gifts received, so if you want to train your memory, this is sure to get your brain working!

5. "O Christmas Tree" by Ernst Anschütz

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Adapted from a traditional German folk tune from the 16th century, the lyrics to "O Christmas Tree" were written by Ernst Anschütz in 1824, a composer and organist. Originally a song praising the evergreen fir tree ("tannenbaum" in german) as a symbol of loyalty, it later became associated with Christmas music and the tree decorating tradition. Its simplicity and heartfelt melody make it a timeless classic.

6. "Joy to the World" by Lowell Mason

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This jubilant anthem celebrating Christ’s arrival was adapted by Lowell Mason in 1848 from a melody attributed to Handel. The lyrics, inspired by Psalm 98, were written by Isaac Watts in 1719. This song stands out for its uplifting character and universal message of joy and hope during the holiday season.

7. "O Come, All Ye Faithful (Adeste Fideles)" by John Francis Wade

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This hymn, originally named in Latin as "Adeste Fideles", was composed by John Francis Wade in the 18th century. Its grand melody and harmonies, paired with lyrics inviting the faithful to celebrate the birth of Christ, has made it a classic of Christmas religious carols.

8. "Carol of the Bells" by Mykola Leontovych

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Contrasting the musical landscape of traditional Christmas music, "Carol of the Bells" was composed in 1914 by Ukrainian composer Mykola Leontovych, based on a traditional Ukrainian New Year song. Known for its bell-like ostinato motif, "Carol of the Bells" has become a favorite for its mesmerizing rhythm and layered harmonies, notably featured in the 1990 hit film "Home Alone" in an arrangement by famous film composer John Williams.

9. "Away in a Manger"

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Attributed to multiple composers and various countries of origin, "Away in a Manger" dates back to the 19th century and captures the imagery of baby Jesus in a manger on Christmas. It has a simple, heartfelt melody and tender lyrics which make it a favorite for caroling.

10. "Jingle Bells"

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Originally written for Thanksgiving in the mid 19th century, "Jingle Bells" quickly became associated with Christmas due to its playful imagery and feature of jingle bells, the favorite instrument of the Christmas period. Its catchy tune and lively rhythm make it one of the most popular secular carols during the season.

11. "O Come, O Come, Emmanuel"

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Based on a 12th-century Latin hymn for the Advent season (the period before Christmas), "O Come, O Come, Emmanuel" is a song that reflects on the hopeful anticipation of Christ’s arrival. Its chant-like melody give it a sense of reverence, often used in religious holiday services.

12. "We Wish You a Merry Christmas"

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Originating in England, this popular carol was sung by carolers as a way to wish good cheers during the holidays. Its lively tune and simple lyrics make it a perfect addition to any Christmas celebration, spreading warmth and joy with its simple message.

To get started playing Christmas sheet music on your instrument, check out our complete collection of Christmas Carols Sheet Music, the best of Classical Music Sheet Music for Christmas, or our collection of Christmas Classics for Beginners!