Sometimes, we all need a reminder that even a small spark can light up the world. That’s why we transformed this true story into a Christmas campaign by the ERSTE GROUP. Join us in witnessing the birth of Silent Night – a simple song from a small village that would go on to touch hearts around the world for centuries to come.
More detailed information on individual scenes and milestones in the history of Silent Night
1818, Oberndorf
On 24 December 1818, music teacher Franz Xaver Gruber composed a melody for two solo voices, choir and guitar accompaniment with Joseph Mohr.
1818, Oberndorf
“Silent Night” is sung for the first time on Christmas Eve in the St. Nicola Church in Oberndorf near Salzburg by Joseph Mohr and Franz Xaver Gruber.
1822, Fügen in Zillertal
The Rainer Singers sing the song to mark the visit of Emperor Franz I and Tsar Alexander I to Fügen.
1906, Massachusetts, USA
First transmission of music and voice via radio by Reginald Fassenden, who played ‘Silent Night’ on the violin in a home-made radio station on Christmas Eve.
1914, Western Front, Belgium/France
At Christmas 1914 during the First World War, a spontaneous, unofficial truce was established along the Western Front, in which German and British soldiers laid down their arms together on Christmas Eve - the so-called Christmas Truce. The soldiers exchanged Christmas presents, played football and sang Silent Night together. The truce was not supported by the military leadership of either side, making it a remarkable act of humanity in the midst of war.
The song was seen as a symbol of peace in both world wars and was sung in prison camps and by soldiers of different nations.
1973, Houston, Texas
NASA transmits ‘Silent Night’ into space as a Christmas greeting to the crew of Skylab-4.
A heartfelt thanks to the Silent Night Association, which has dedicated itself to preserving and sharing the origins and message of this song. Discover more about the history and worldwide journey of Silent Night: https://www.stillenacht.at/en
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