There are at least a million-and-one beautiful things about Christmastime. For many of us though, listening to the soul-soothing music by far tops the chart (perhaps treats are up there too).
While you can’t go wrong with the classics, there’s something amazing about discovering a fresh spin on a holiday favorite. Peter Hollens is one of those artists that breathes new life into songs with his creativity and a capella-style.
Be prepared to feel the chills listening to Hollen’s unique version of “Carol of the Bells” – where he’s joined by 300 other singers. Frankly, you’ll probably need a sweater for it.
The human voice can make some pretty incredible sounds. In fact, a capella artists create all their music with vocals and go without other instruments.
Peter Hollens is a classically trained vocalist who’s well-known for the videos he creates for social media. Each one is different, however – they’re all done using his talents for a cappella.
Hollens has worked with other musicians in the industry like Jackie Evancho, David Archuleta, and the country group Home Free. All their spine-tingling collaborations are also featured on his YouTube channel.
With the voice of an angel, it’s no surprise that Hollens has a gift for covering Christmas songs.
Hollens released the ultimate rendition of “Carol of the Bells” that might just become your new favorite. It begins as a solo performance with spotlights in the background. But in order to cover all of the instrumentals, more “Hollens” walk in and form a musical quartet.
What would the holiday season be without friends though? A short time in, Hollens is joined by the members of BYU’s Vocal Point and the BYU Men’s Chorus.
Suddenly, the performance is similar to a heavenly choir with Hollens in the center of it all. Together the dozens of singers belt out the lyrics and instrumental sounds.
Just when you think the video couldn’t get more epic, it goes to another level the moment the singers are joined by children.
Little by little the One Voice Children’s Choir merges in with Hollens and the other groups until they’re one massive ensemble. As the camera pans around, the sight is glorious.
“Carol of the Bells” is a song that’s played in many of our households year after year. There have also been countless versions of it too.
The music was originally composed in 1914 by Mykola Leontovych, and the lyrics were written by Peter J. Wilhousky. Since then, musicians have taken their own crack at the tune, performing it in various music genres like rock, pop, classical, country, and metal.
But even if you’re not a fan of the classic, watching Peter Hollens (and Friends) perform it may turn things around. Just like it did for one YouTube user named Sophie.
She wrote:
“Wow! That is amazing! The Carol of the Bells has never been one of my favorite songs but that was amazing! I absolutely love it! Great job Peter Hollens and everyone else in it! I think I have been converted in my opinion of this song!”
Another woman named Hannah commented:
“WOW. This was such a powerful video, especially when everyone came together at the end. Now this song’s going to be going through my head for the rest of the day, but that’s okay since it’s so amazing! :-D Loved it!”
You can watch this breathtaking rendition for yourself below. But remember, you’ve been warned about the goosebumps.
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