. . . which really turned into an original lyrical text back in 2004. I have subtitled this song "a Christmas fantasy" because the events described almost certainly did not happen the way they do in this song, but its great fun! I used this 'translation' in my children's Christmas songbook, "O Sing a Song of Bethlehem," and then again when I arranged the piece for The Utah Premiere Brass and Timpanogos Chorale (performed at their Christmas concert in 2005). I've been thinking about arranging a version for carolers for years, once again, my 365 Days of Christmas Project gave me the impetus to finally get it done. I'm providing it in 2 keys . . . more »

In this version, the voices imitate the sound of the bells, a la "Ring Christmas Bells" (aka "Carol of the Bells"), while the bass sings the words of the tune. This has a completely different feel, but you get the idea. I love the text; it is somewhat ambiguous and leaves me wondering if it is talking about Old Father Christmas or the Christ Child . . . it could go either way . . . more »