Carol of the Bells (for 12 Cellos) - A Unique Masterpiece by The Piano Guys

The Piano Guys have created a stunning rendition of the classic holiday carol, Carol of the Bells, blended seamlessly with another beloved carol, God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen. This mesmerizing arrangement features 12 cellos, capturing the joy and excitement of the Christmas season. It is a piece that not only delights with its rich harmonies but also brings a unique twist that ignites the spirit of celebration.

The Inspiration Behind the Arrangement

Steven Sharp Nelson, the talented cellist of The Piano Guys, shares his thoughts and inspiration behind this extraordinary arrangement. He mentions how the two carols were practically made for each other, both encapsulating the thrill that December brings. Nelson is driven by the infectious excitement of his three children as they countdown to Christmas, which he translates into music through this arrangement.

Interestingly, some listeners have compared the energy of this piece to the adventurous soundtracks of the Pirates of the Caribbean series. It's a whimsical thought that perhaps one day there could be a pirate-themed Christmas special featuring this piece as its theme. Steven jokingly suggests a title such as "Jack Sparrow of the Bells" for such a scenario.

Musical Elements and Technique

For music enthusiasts, this arrangement provides a technical delight, showcasing a fascinating interplay between the two carols. One of the standout musical elements is the use of hemiola, a rhythmic device occasioned by the meter differences in the original pieces — one being in 3/4 and the other in 4/4. This adds a rich layer of complexity and excitement.

The arrangement culminates in a dramatic canon and a cluster-chord feel, which builds a sense of anticipation that resolves beautifully with the main themes, leaving listeners in awe of the harmony achieved by intertwining these holiday classics.

Creation and Production

The creative force behind this piece is a collaborative effort by Steven Sharp Nelson and Al van der Beek, who worked together on the arrangement, production, recording, mixing, and mastering at TPG Studios. The visual aspect of this artistic creation was brought to life by Paul Anderson as the video producer, with Tel Stewart handling the cinematography and editing.

Shooting Locations

The video showcases stunning visuals captured in several breathtaking locations around Utah. The bustling energy of Downtown Salt Lake City provides an urban backdrop, while the tranquil beauty of Little Cottonwood Canyon and Big Cottonwood Canyon offers a natural escape. Additionally, the Ice Rink at the Gallivan Center in Salt Lake City contributes to the wintry ambiance, enhancing the holiday feel of the performance.

Special thanks are extended to the security guard at the Gallivan Center for their cooperation during filming and to a kind passerby, W.D. Johnson, who offered practical assistance by lending his snowshoe to prevent the cello from sinking into the snow.

Embrace the holiday spirit through the sensational sound of Carol of the Bells (for 12 Cellos) and experience the magical fusion created by The Piano Guys. Let the music envelop you in a celebration of joy, anticipation, and the wondrous energy of the Christmas season.