I grew up with this carol singing "...playing of the merry harp...", I think because it was that way in the Cambridge Hymnal (though now I'm not so sure that was the source). It does add space for a breath, and I grew up in children's and church choirs, so it kinda makes sense. Anyway, the tune is great all on its own, so long as it's not too maudlin or sappy, I like it to bounce along a bit.Peace, Mooh.