‘Carol of the Bells’ originated in a Ukrainian city that has been devastated by Russian attacks.

Dnipropetrovsk, Ukraine – The beloved Ukrainian song known in America as “Carol of the Bells,” originally titled “Shchedryk,” has a rich history, rooted in choral traditions meant to resonate in grand settings such as churches and concert halls. However, during wartime, Ukrainians have had to adapt their performances to reflect the realities of a nation in conflict.

Amidst this backdrop, a choir from the historical Leontovych Music School in the besieged city of Pokrovsk has drastically scaled down its holiday concert for this year, performing a complex arrangement of “Shchedryk” with just three singers instead of the usual thirty. The song, which symbolizes resilience and hope, remains a powerful testament to the spirit of Ukraine, even as its performers grapple with the consequences of war.

The Leontovych Music School, named after the composer Mykola Leontovych, has deep ties to “Shchedryk.” This institution has historically represented the city, where Leontovych lived from 1904 to 1908. Once an active cultural hub, Pokrovsk has experienced devastating Russian bombardment, forcing most of its choir members to flee to various regions of Ukraine and even into Europe.

Following the evacuation of crucial instruments in 2024, the school was rendered largely inoperable, with Russian forces controlling around 95% of the city. The choir, once a robust ensemble known for its rich vocal harmonies, now consists of two sopranos and an alto, including the choir director, Alla Dekhtyar.

Despite the reduced numbers, the trio is determined to perform “Shchedryk,” as the song embodies more than just a melody for them; it stands as an act of defiance against the ongoing Russian aggression and a reminder of Ukraine’s enduring cultural contributions. For the displaced residents of Pokrovsk, “Shchedryk” holds a particularly poignant significance, as many believe it was birthed in their city long before its premiere in Kyiv in 1916 and its later triumph at Carnegie Hall in 1922.

Angelina Rozhkova, director of the Pokrovsk Historical Museum, elucidates the dual nature of the song, which resonates with themes of home and loss. While “Shchedryk” is celebrated as a Christmas classic worldwide, for the displaced citizens of Pokrovsk, it symbolizes a lost home and fractured community.

Leontovych, born in the Vinnytsia region in 1877, has compelling ties to the city of Pokrovsk, having moved there amid a growing railway community. Known for his dedication to an independent Ukrainian state, he faced persecution for his nationalist views. His music, including “Shchedryk,” drew heavily from the local culture and folklore, intertwining elements that would become emblematic of Ukrainian identity.

The adaptation of “Shchedryk” into its American incarnation illustrates a transformation steeped in cultural exchange. It has evolved over decades, thanks in part to composers like Peter Wilhousky, who crafted an English version that helped popularize the song in the United States.

As the choir prepares for its performance, the atmosphere is bittersweet. The school in Dnipro, temporarily housing the displaced musicians, feels more like a refuge than a home. The absence of a communal spirit that once flourished in Pokrovsk casts a long shadow over their rehearsals.

Yet, as the trio rehearses together, their voices—despite the physical distance from their past—create a harmonious reminder of their cultural heritage infused with resilience. Each note serves as an affirmation of their shared identity and undying spirit, even amidst the ongoing challenges faced by their homeland. As they take to the stage, it becomes clear that their song encapsulates not just the melodies of Ukraine, but also the enduring strength of its people.

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