This
carol owes its fame almost entirely to the last line of each verse- as fine an example of
melisma (see
Metacognizant's definition) as you are likely to find. It is a brisk and fun
carol that is breathlessly enjoyable, and so it too is sung at every
Carol service.
Ding Dong Merrily On High
Ding Dong! merrily on high
In heav'n the bells are ringing
Ding, dong! verily the sky
Is riv'n with angel singing
Gloria, Hosanna in excelsis
E'en so here below, below
Let steeple bells be swungen
And i-o, i-o, i-o
By priest and people be sungen
Gloria, Hosanna in excelsis
Pray ye dutifully prime
Your matin chime, ye ringers
May ye beautifully rime
Your evetime song, ye singers
Gloria, Hosanna in excelsis
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