Composer

:

Felix Mendelssohn

Genre

:

Choral

Style

:

Choral

Compose Date

:

Aug 8, 1844

Publication Date

:

1851

Average_duration

:

3:07

Neujahrslied, Op. 88/1 is a choral work composed by Felix Mendelssohn in 1848. It was premiered on January 1, 1849, in Leipzig, Germany, as part of the New Year's Day concert at the Gewandhaus. The piece is written for four-part mixed choir and orchestra. The work consists of three movements. The first movement is a lively and joyful choral setting of the German New Year's Day hymn "Vom Himmel hoch, da komm ich her" (From Heaven Above to Earth I Come). The choir sings the melody in unison, while the orchestra provides a festive accompaniment. The movement ends with a triumphant coda. The second movement is a slower and more contemplative setting of the hymn "Wie schön leuchtet der Morgenstern" (How Beautifully Shines the Morning Star). The choir sings the melody in four-part harmony, while the orchestra provides a gentle and delicate accompaniment. The movement ends with a peaceful and serene coda. The third movement is a lively and energetic setting of the hymn "In dulci jubilo" (In Sweet Rejoicing). The choir sings the melody in unison, while the orchestra provides a lively and rhythmic accompaniment. The movement features a number of dynamic contrasts and ends with a joyful and exuberant coda. Overall, Neujahrslied, Op. 88/1 is a festive and celebratory work that captures the spirit of the New Year. Mendelssohn's use of traditional German hymns and his skillful orchestration create a joyful and uplifting atmosphere that is sure to delight audiences.

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