It Came Upon a Midnight Clear

It Came Upon a Midnight Clear began as a poem written in 1849 by Edmund Sears, a Unitarian minister in Massachusetts. It first appeared in print that December, and in 1850 the American composer Richard Storrs Willis set the words to the tune most Americans still sing today. In Britain and the Commonwealth it is often paired instead with a melody adapted by Arthur Sullivan.

Its calm, hopeful message of peace on earth makes it a stirring carol for choirs, and our Love to Sing choir keeps it warm and singable for everyone. It's a lovely choice for carol services, school nativities and reflective moments together at home.

Explore more Christian Christmas carols, or pair it with Hark! The Herald Angels Sing and O Little Town of Bethlehem.