Josiah Gilbert Holland Grave

Hymn History: There’s a Song in the Air & Author: Josiah Gilbert Holland

“In 1872 … writing a special Christmas hymn … He described how wonderful it was ‘in the homes of the nations’ who declare that ‘Jesus is King!’”
(Inspiration Ministries)

The Origin of the Hymn “There’s a Song in the Air”

The hymn “There’s a Song in the Air” is one of the enduring treasures of Christmas hymnody, celebrated for its joyful melody and vivid imagery of the nativity of Christ. Written in 1854, this hymn has been sung in churches and homes for over a century and a half, evoking both the wonder and the celebration of the birth of the Savior. Its creation reflects the rich 19th-century American tradition of hymn writing, which combined poetic sensitivity with theological depth.

The Hymnwriter: Josiah G. Holland (1819–1881)

“There’s a Song in the Air” was penned by Josiah Gilbert Holland, an American novelist, journalist, and poet, born in Fort Wayne, Indiana, on June 24, 1819. Holland was a prolific writer, known primarily for his novels and poetry, as well as for his work as editor of Scribner’s Monthly. Though he was not a full-time hymnwriter like some of his contemporaries, Holland wrote several poems and hymns that captured the religious sentiment of his day.

Holland’s background in literature greatly influenced his hymn writing. He had a gift for vivid imagery and rhythmic phrasing, both of which are prominent in “There’s a Song in the Air”. His poetic sensibilities allowed him to create a hymn that could be both sung easily and appreciated for its literary beauty. Holland’s faith, combined with his literary skill, made him uniquely equipped to craft hymns that were devotional and emotionally stirring.

Historical Context and Inspiration

“There’s a Song in the Air” was written during a period in American history marked by revivalism and a growing emphasis on personal piety and public worship. Christmas hymns were particularly popular in this era as American churches sought to cultivate a season of celebration centered on the nativity story. Holland’s hymn reflects this religious and cultural moment, emphasizing the universal rejoicing at the birth of Christ.

Holland was inspired by the biblical narrative of Jesus’ birth as told in Luke 2, particularly the appearance of angels to the shepherds in the fields of Bethlehem. The hymn captures the angels’ announcement and the joyful response of heaven and earth:

“There’s a song in the air! There’s a star in the sky!
There’s a mother’s deep prayer and a baby’s low cry!”

These opening lines immediately draw the listener into the scene of the nativity, combining the human and the divine, the intimate and the cosmic. Holland’s attention to detail—the “mother’s deep prayer” and the “baby’s low cry”—creates an immersive experience, highlighting the wonder of God’s incarnation in humble circumstances.

Musical Setting and Popularity

The most common tune associated with “There’s a Song in the Air” is “Christmas”, composed by Karl P. Harrington. Harrington’s melody complements Holland’s lyrics with a flowing, graceful rhythm that enhances the sense of joyous anticipation and celebration. The hymn’s meter, 7.6.7.6 D, allows for expressive singing while remaining accessible to congregations of varying musical abilities.

Upon its publication, the hymn quickly gained popularity. It was included in numerous hymnals throughout the late 19th and early 20th centuries, often paired with other beloved Christmas hymns. Its appeal lay not only in its melodic beauty but also in its vivid storytelling, which brought the biblical narrative to life for worshipers and listeners alike.

Themes and Theological Significance

At its core, “There’s a Song in the Air” celebrates the joyous truth of the Incarnation. Holland’s lyrics emphasize the universality of this event—the entire world rejoices at Christ’s birth, from angels to shepherds to all of creation. The hymn also underscores the hope and promise of salvation: the “song” and the “star” symbolize guidance, light, and divine intervention in human history.

Additionally, the hymn’s portrayal of personal devotion—through the mother’s prayer and the shepherds’ wonder—reminds singers that the gospel touches individuals intimately. Holland balances cosmic celebration with personal encounter, a hallmark of his poetic style.

Legacy

Over a century and a half since its composition, “There’s a Song in the Air” remains a favorite in traditional and contemporary worship. Its enduring appeal lies in its joyful proclamation, its vivid imagery, and its ability to unite theological depth with musical simplicity. Often sung during Christmas services, concerts, and family gatherings, it continues to remind believers of the miraculous event of Christ’s birth and the rejoicing it inspires.

In “There’s a Song in the Air”, Josiah Gilbert Holland gave the church a hymn that captures both the wonder of the nativity and the enduring hope of the gospel. Its blend of poetic imagery, theological truth, and musical grace ensures that generations will continue to sing of the angelic song that announced the Savior’s birth, echoing through hearts and churches alike.