I learned from my high school Latin teacher that the Romans would, as part of their Saturnalia* celebrations, bring an evergreen tree indoors, and decorate it with children's toys.

But I did not, at the time, think to question her about her sources. And that's creeping up on 30 years ago, now.

So I thought I'd turn to the scholars of Mudcat, and ask them:

Can you recommend primary or close secondary sources where I can learn about Saturnalia customs from people who actually took part in them?

And, since this is a music forum, are there any clues to what the celebratory music might have been for this holiday?

Thanks!

*December 17-23