Role

:

Composer

Birth

:

December 15, 1634

Death

:

October 14, 1703 in Odense, Denmark

 

Thomas Kingo was a Danish composer and poet who lived from 1634 to 1703. He was born in Slangerup, Denmark, to a family of musicians. His father, Hans Nielsen, was a church musician, and his mother, Maren Thomasdatter, was a singer. Kingo showed an early interest in music and began his musical education at a young age. Kingo's musical education began with his father, who taught him to play the organ and the violin. He also received instruction from other local musicians. In 1651, Kingo moved to Copenhagen to study at the University of Copenhagen. While there, he continued his musical studies and also began to write poetry. Kingo's poetry was heavily influenced by his religious beliefs. He was a devout Lutheran and his poetry often dealt with religious themes. In 1661, he published his first collection of poetry, "Aandelige Siunge-Koor" (Spiritual Song Choir), which contained hymns and other religious poems. Kingo's musical career began to take off in the 1660s. He was appointed as the organist at the Church of Our Lady in Copenhagen in 1668, a position he held for the rest of his life. He also began to compose music for the church, including hymns and cantatas. One of Kingo's most famous works is his hymn "Nu rinder solen op" (Now the Sun Rises), which is still sung in Danish churches today. The hymn was first published in 1689 and has since become a beloved part of Danish religious tradition. In addition to his work as a composer and poet, Kingo was also a prominent figure in Danish society. He served as a member of the Danish parliament and was a close friend of King Christian V. He was also known for his charitable work, particularly his efforts to help the poor and the sick. Kingo's legacy as a composer and poet has endured to this day. His hymns and other religious works continue to be sung in Danish churches, and his poetry is still studied and appreciated by scholars and readers alike. He is remembered as one of Denmark's greatest cultural figures and a pioneer of Danish hymnody.

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