Composer

:

Michael Praetorius

Genre

:

Choral

Style

:

Choral

Average_duration

:

9:00

Wir glauben all an einen Gott is a sacred choral work composed by Michael Praetorius in the early 17th century. The piece is a Lutheran hymn, and its text is based on the Nicene Creed, a statement of Christian faith that was adopted by the First Council of Nicaea in 325 AD. The composition is written for four-part choir, and it is divided into six movements. The first movement is a simple statement of the hymn's opening line, "Wir glauben all an einen Gott" ("We all believe in one God"). The second movement is a setting of the second line of the hymn, "Vater, Sohn und Heiliger Geist" ("Father, Son, and Holy Spirit"). This movement features a lively, dance-like rhythm and a joyful melody. The third movement is a setting of the third line of the hymn, "der alles geschaffen hat Himmel und Erde" ("who has created all things, heaven and earth"). This movement is more contemplative in nature, with a slower tempo and a more introspective melody. The fourth movement is a setting of the fourth line of the hymn, "was sichtbar und unsichtbar ist" ("both visible and invisible"). This movement features a complex, contrapuntal texture, with the different parts of the choir weaving in and out of each other. The fifth movement is a setting of the fifth line of the hymn, "und in einen Herrn Jesus Christ" ("and in one Lord Jesus Christ"). This movement is more solemn and reverent, with a slower tempo and a more subdued melody. The final movement is a setting of the final lines of the hymn, "der von dem Vater geboren ist vor aller Zeit" ("who was born of the Father before all time") and "Gott von Gott, Licht vom Licht" ("God from God, light from light"). This movement is a triumphant conclusion to the piece, with a powerful melody and a sense of exultation. Overall, Wir glauben all an einen Gott is a beautiful and complex choral work that showcases Praetorius's skill as a composer. The piece is characterized by its intricate harmonies, contrapuntal textures, and varied tempos and moods. It premiered in the early 17th century and has since become a beloved piece of sacred music in the Lutheran tradition.

More....