I Heard the Bells on Christmas Day

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On Sunday, December 8 MD performed this classic seasonal favorite at WDCB's Holiday Hoot, held on the campus of College of DuPage, Glen Ellyn, Illinois.

The lyrics are based upon Henry Wadsworth Longfellows 1863 poem, "Christmas Bells." The poem was first set to music in the 1870s, but MD's arrangement is closer to the tune Johnny Marks composed in the 1950s.

Click here or on the photo for a free tablature download.


I heard the bells on Christmas Day, 

the old familiar carols played,

wild and sweet, the words repeat, 

peace on earth, good will to men.


I thought of how the day had come,

the belfries of all Christendom

had rolled along, the unbroken song of

peace on earth good will to men


But in despair I bowed my head, 

there is no peace on earth I said,

hate is strong and mocks the song of 

peace on earth good will to men


Then  pealed the bells more loud and deep,

God is not dead, nor does He sleep

the wrong shall fail, the right prevail with

peace on earth good will to men


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


I heard the bells on Christmas Day

the old familiar carols played

wild and sweet the words repeat

peace on earth good will to men



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