Christmas classic 'Carol of the Bells' reveals hidden tale of Ukrainian independence struggle

In a sold-out concert at Kyiv’s Philharmonic this Christmas Eve, the Ukrainian Radio Choir will transport audiences back to a pivotal moment in history, retracing the origins of the beloved holiday melody, “Carol of the Bells.”

Little do the humming enthusiasts know that the catchy tune has deep roots in Ukraine’s bid for independence.

Originally known as “Shchedryk,” meaning New Year’s carol, the composition was crafted by composer Mykola Leontovych and premiered in Kyiv during Christmas 1916.

The upcoming performance is set to recreate the ambiance of the first US concert where Shchedryk dazzled audiences at Carnegie Hall in 1922, during a time when Ukraine was navigating its fragile state of independence post-World War I.

The musical journey was part of a larger initiative led by nationalist politician Symon Petlyura, who sought recognition of Ukraine’s independence through what is now termed “musical diplomacy.”

Tina Peresunko, a cultural researcher involved in organizing the event, explains that Petlyura aimed to convey Ukraine’s identity and independence through song, using the nation’s folklore to distinguish it from Russia.

Despite the hopeful melodies, Petlyura’s endeavors fell short, and Ukraine eventually became part of the USSR.

The original choir members, fearing Soviet repercussions, stayed in the US as emigres. Tragically, composer Mykola Leontovych met an untimely demise at the hands of a Soviet agent in 1921, but his legacy endured.

In 1936, Peter Wilhousky, an American of Ukrainian descent, penned English lyrics to Shchedryk, forever intertwining it with Christmas as “Carol of the Bells.”

As Ukraine celebrates Christmas on December 25 for the first time, aligning with Western traditions rather than the Russian date of January 7, the concert takes on added significance.

The echoes of the past resonate as the Ukrainian Radio Choir, dressed in traditional attire, faces interruptions even during rehearsals, drawing parallels between the turbulent times of Shchedryk’s debut and the current challenges Ukraine faces.

Conductor Yuliya Tkach, leading the rehearsal, emphasizes the symbolic importance of the song, not just for Christmas but as a representation of Ukraine to the world. The concert promises a unique program, featuring songs from the original choir’s world tour, some of which have rarely been heard since.

In a heartfelt plea, Tkach expresses her desire to take the choir on an international tour to present this repertoire, offering a musical message to the world during what she calls a “difficult time for Ukraine.”