Composer

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Jan Pieterszoon Sweelinck

Genre

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Keyboard

Style

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Variations

Average_duration

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3:54

'Puer nobis nascitur' is a Christmas carol composed by Jan Pieterszoon Sweelinck, a Dutch composer and organist of the late Renaissance period. The carol is believed to have been composed in the early 17th century, although the exact date is unknown. It was first published in 1620 in the collection 'Cantiones sacrae' by Sweelinck's student, Cornelis Plemp. 'Puer nobis nascitur' is a four-part choral work, with the text in Latin. The carol is divided into three movements, each with its own distinct character. The first movement is a joyful and lively setting of the opening lines of the text, which describe the birth of Christ. The second movement is a more contemplative and introspective setting of the middle section of the text, which reflects on the significance of Christ's birth. The final movement is a triumphant and celebratory setting of the closing lines of the text, which exalt Christ as the savior of the world. Sweelinck's setting of 'Puer nobis nascitur' is characterized by its rich harmonies, intricate counterpoint, and expressive use of dissonance. The carol is also notable for its use of word painting, in which the music reflects the meaning of the text. For example, the opening lines of the carol are set to a lively and rhythmic melody, which evokes the joy and excitement of Christ's birth. In contrast, the middle section of the carol is set to a more subdued and introspective melody, which reflects the contemplative nature of the text. Overall, 'Puer nobis nascitur' is a masterful example of Sweelinck's skill as a composer and his ability to create music that is both technically complex and emotionally expressive. The carol has remained a beloved Christmas classic for centuries, and continues to be performed and enjoyed by audiences around the world.

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