Composer

:

Christmas Traditional

Genre

:

Choral

Style

:

Carol

Compose Date

:

before 1582

Average_duration

:

2:30

"Personent Hodie" is a Christmas carol that has been passed down through generations as a traditional song. The exact date of its composition is unknown, but it is believed to have originated in the 14th century in Germany. The carol was first published in the Piae Cantiones, a collection of medieval Latin songs, in 1582. The carol is typically performed in four movements, with each movement building on the previous one. The first movement begins with a solo voice singing the opening line, "Personent hodie voces puerulae," which translates to "Let the boys' voices sing today." The choir then joins in, singing the same line in harmony. The second movement features a solo voice singing the next line, "Laudantes jucunde qui nobis est natus," which means "Joyfully praising the one who is born to us." The choir then joins in, singing the same line in harmony. The third movement is a lively dance-like section, with the choir singing "In excelsis gloria," which means "Glory to God in the highest." The fourth and final movement is a triumphant conclusion, with the choir singing "Eya, Eya, jube domine, through Bethlehem's gate," which means "Hey, hey, Lord, command us to enter through Bethlehem's gate." The characteristics of "Personent Hodie" include its use of medieval Latin lyrics, its lively and joyful melody, and its incorporation of both solo and choral voices. The carol has become a beloved Christmas classic, and is often performed in churches and other venues during the holiday season. Its timeless message of joy and celebration continues to resonate with audiences around the world.

More....