‘Curious Conversations’ podcast: Ariana Wyatt talks about the history of Christmas music

Ariana Wyatt joined Virginia Tech’s “Curious Conversations” to talk about the history of Christmas music, from its origins in early Christian hymns to its transformation into a commercialized genre in the 20th century. She shared the cultural impact of Christmas music, the distinction between church hymns and secular songs, and the nostalgia that these tunes evoke during the holiday season. 

“Curious Conversations” is available on Spotify, Apple, and YouTube.

Takeaways

 “Angel’s Hymn” was created in 129 A.D. and is typically regarded as the first Christmas song. The blending of church and secular Christmas and winter-themed songs was very common in the centuries that followed.

The 20th century saw a significant rise in secular Christmas music, with the commercialization of the genre gaining much traction during and after World War II.

Songs like “Jingle Bells” might not have a direct connection to Christmas, but are generally considered in the genre because of the thematic combination of winter weather, family and friends, and magic.

About Wyatt

Wyatt is associate dean for outreach and engagement and associate professor of voice in Virginia Tech’s College of Architecture, Arts, and Design. A graduate of Juilliard Opera Center, she has performed in operas and concert halls throughout the country and her research focuses on vocal diction and acting as well as opera research and production. 

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About the podcast

"Curious Conversations" is a series of free-flowing conversations with Virginia Tech researchers that take place at the intersection of world-class research and everyday life. Produced and hosted by Travis Williams, assistant director of marketing and communications for the Office of Research and Innovation, university researchers share their expertise and motivations as well as the practical applications of their work in a format that more closely resembles chats at a cookout than classroom lectures. New episodes are shared each Tuesday.