Old Made New

Throughout this time of year we find ourselves singing what I like to call "comfort food" songs. This past weekend, the second week of advent (Peace), was no exception. Christmas carols may be the only "traditional" songs that we can all agree on. That being said, I find myself often wanting to tinker with some of these old classics. The debate continues on whether or not "tinkering" should be done. Oh well! Often times, I'll come across an old hymn or carol that musically doesn't seem to fit the text. You've heard them. It will sound like a happy-go-lucky bar tune (btw, many of them were), yet the lyrics are about an excruciating death on a cross. What? It's just strange. So, this past weekend, I took it upon myself to work on the old standby..."I Heard The Bells on Christmas Day". I just made two slight changes. Rather than a major key, I decided to do the verses in a minor key. It just made sense seeing as one of the verses states:

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 goodwill to men

I then coupled that with an extra chorus in the major key that sang:

Hear the ringing, Angels singing

Hear them crying, Christ is born!

The new chorus brought in the brightness of the season that I think the song needed. It really turned out quite nice. Here's the demo that I made for our rehearsal.

...and here's the video from this past weekend's service.

Let me know what you think.

Thank you Lord for the gift of your Son, & thank you for the music penned through the ages to help us in worshipping Him. TO GOD BE THE GLORY!!