On playing Christmas carols

Every year at Christmastime I find myself being asked to play Christmas carols at different festivities. And during our Scottish Christmas Concert our band will play a couple carols, changing tune combinations each year.

Some piping friends have challenged the ‘need’ for playing carols at all as “they were not composed for pipes.” I have to say I disagree. Music transcends the instrument if the transposition of tunes can be played well on the pipes. 

I thoroughly enjoy playing carols as a treat to listeners. It surprises and stirs listeners when they least expect it. Played solo, the tunes can be added to most any repertoire where exact embellishment may be laid aside for the sake of the listener.

Trusted tunes that work are:

Angels We Have Heard on High
We Wish You a Merry Christmas
Oh Come Oh Come Emmanuel
Come All Ye Faithful
Hark the Herald Angel Sing
Deck the Halls
I Saw Three Ships


Merry Christmas!