Composer

:

Christmas Traditional

Genre

:

Miscellaneous

Style

:

Carol

Compose Date

:

ca. 1450 - 1550

Average_duration

:

2:27

'Maria durch ein Dornwald ging' is a German Christmas carol that has been passed down through generations as a traditional folk song. The exact date of its composition is unknown, but it is believed to have originated in the 16th century. The carol tells the story of Mary walking through a thorn forest on her way to Bethlehem to give birth to Jesus. The premiere of 'Maria durch ein Dornwald ging' is also unknown, as it was likely sung in small communities and passed down orally before being written down and published in various hymnals. The carol gained popularity in the 19th century and has since become a beloved Christmas song in Germany and beyond. The carol is typically performed in three movements, with each verse telling a different part of the story. The first movement describes Mary's journey through the thorn forest, with lyrics such as "Maria durch ein Dornwald ging, Kyrie eleison" (Mary walked through a thorn forest, Lord have mercy). The second movement describes the angels singing to Mary, with lyrics such as "Da haben die Engel gesungen schön, Kyrie eleison" (Then the angels sang beautifully, Lord have mercy). The third movement describes Mary arriving in Bethlehem and giving birth to Jesus, with lyrics such as "Sie gebar ein Kindlein zart, Kyrie eleison" (She gave birth to a tender child, Lord have mercy). The characteristics of 'Maria durch ein Dornwald ging' include its simple melody and repetitive lyrics, which make it easy to sing and remember. The carol is often performed in a cappella arrangements, with multiple voices singing in harmony. The use of the phrase "Kyrie eleison" throughout the song adds a sense of reverence and prayerfulness to the lyrics. Overall, 'Maria durch ein Dornwald ging' is a beautiful and timeless Christmas carol that has been cherished by generations of people around the world. Its message of Mary's journey to Bethlehem and the birth of Jesus continues to inspire and uplift listeners today.

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