our musical advent calendar, day 13

Inspired by Pinterest, Anna wanted to do an advent calendar. And inspired by Advent Conspiracy, she wanted to make it about presence, not presents. Ian had a brilliant idea to use music. We each picked out some of our favorite Christmas songs and will be counting down with festive tunes.

day 13. "Still, Still, Still" - Austrian Christmas Carol

I used to play the piano (took piano lessons for, like, 8 years, y’all — then proceeded to not play for, like 13 years). Anyhoo, Christmas was one of my favorite times to sneak into the oh-so-cold piano room in our (funeral) home and attempt to play by ear some song that I had heard earlier in the day. But, one year, I remember acquiring a piano book of Christmas songs (I can’t recall whether it was a gift of something that I purchased myself), and from then on, that was my go to book for all things jolly and bright.

There was one song in that book that I loved to play more than any other, "Still, Still, Still." As funny or juxtaposing as it may seem, this Austrian lullaby was easily one of the most beautiful songs I’d ever heard. It remains so today, putting into poetry Mary’s words as she coaxes her newborn baby to sleep. Please enjoy the little-known carol that rings ever so sweetly.

—Ian

Still, Still, Still
One can hear the falling snow
For all is hushed
The world is sleeping
Holy Star her Vigil keeping
Still, Still, Still
One can hear the falling snow

Sleep, Sleep, Sleep
'Tis the eve of our Savior's birth
The night is peaceful all around you
Close your eyes
Let sleep surround you
Sleep, Sleep, Sleep
'Tis the eve of our Savior's birth

Dream, Dream, Dream
Of the joyous day to come
While guardian angels without number
Watch you as you sweetly slumber
Dream, Dream, Dream
Of the joyous day to come