A Thousand Christmas Lights are Lit arr. by Sandra Eithun

Review:      This well?known Swedish carol "Nu tändas tusen juleljus" (literally “Now a thousand Christmas candles/lights are lit”), was written and composed by Emmy Köhler in 1898. Set here for handbells, A Thousand Christmas Lights Are Lit begins as a quiet, lyrical arrangement that evokes the hush and wonder of a winter evening. Lush, meditative textures and gentle arpeggiations unfold slowly, while the familiar strains of Silent Night and In the Bleak Midwinter are artfully intertwined. Incorporating handchimes and the singing bell technique, this setting is ideal for candlelight services, intimate concerts, or seasonal programs. The work highlights expressive ringing and sensitive dynamic control to create a warm, reverent atmosphere.

Published by: Choristers Guild

Composer: Traditional Swedish Carol	Arranger: Eithun, Sandra	Octaves: 3-5	Level: 2+	Rating: Easy Medium	Copyright: 2026
Season: Christmas
Classification: Church or Concert , Concert , Instrument Part , Secular
Technique: Mallet , Echo , vib. (Vibrato) , LV (Let Vibrate) , Damp Sign , SB (Singing Bell or Bowl)
Voicing: Handbells, No Choral
Instrument: Chimes(Choirchimes or Handchimes)
Bells Used: Three Octaves: 26 Bells; Four Octaves: 33 Bells; Five Octaves: 41 Bells