We have Ukraine to thank for giving 'Christmas magic to the world.' FOX13
According to the Ukraine government website, "Carol of the Bells" was not a carol: It was "Shchedryk," a four-note melody dating back to the pre-Christian era that Ukrainians sang in the spring when swallows returned from their winter migration. The song was part of New Year celebrations meant to bless each other with a prosperous harvest.
In 1918, Ukraine declared independence from the Russian Empire, but the newly formed government "had to fight" for recognition in the international community. The new head of state decided to use the power of song as a tool for diplomacy, directing Oleksandr Hoshyts to assemble a choir of 100 singers for a European tour.
The choir continued touring, performing in Mexico, Brazil, Argentina, Uruguay, Cuba and Canada before they stopped touring in 1924. For five and a half years, "Shchedryk" had been their biggest hit.After the tour ended, some of the singers stayed in New York and continued to perform in the 1930s. American conductor Peter Wilhousky, who was of Ukrainian descent, heard "Shchedryk" at one of these performances.
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