Mykola Leontovych (1877-1921) Carol of the Bells, arr. James Kazik (SATT)

This piece was originally a choral work composed by the Ukrainian composer Mykola Dmytrovych Leontovych. The rhythmic ostinato used throughout the piece was inspired by an ancient pagan New Year’s chant called “Shchedryk.” In the pagan tradition, New Year's was in the spring! The Christmas version of tune was developed in the 1940s.