GERMANY: O Tannenbaum - Ernst Anschütz
This carol is perhaps one of the most recognisable across the world. Whilst it is not explicitly about Christmas, it is about a fir tree and its evergreen nature, which is associated with Christmas. Different nations are famed for contributing to the stereotypical aspects of the modern day Western festivities, none is perhaps more synonymous with celebrations than the Christmas tree. Whilst the origins of the tree are disputed by Baltic countries it has undoubtedly become popularised through its use in Germany. As a Lutheran tradition the tree acts as a symbol of unity amongst Christians across the planet, having made its way as a custom into the homes of Catholics and even to the Vatican. The song itself is often sung by choirs and it has become a radio-friendly carol that evokes images and the spirit of the season.