Composer

:

William Mathias

Genre

:

Choral

Style

:

Motet

Compose Date

:

1990

Average_duration

:

3:01

'Hodie Christus natus est' is a Christmas carol composed by Welsh composer William Mathias in 1959. The piece was premiered on December 20, 1959, at the Llandaff Cathedral in Cardiff, Wales. The carol is written for SATB choir and organ, and it is divided into three movements. The first movement begins with a bright and joyful organ introduction, setting the tone for the piece. The choir enters with a unison chant of "Hodie Christus natus est" (Today Christ is born), which is then repeated in harmony. The movement is characterized by lively rhythms and syncopated accents, creating a sense of excitement and celebration. The second movement is a contrast to the first, with a slower and more contemplative mood. The choir sings a gentle melody in unison, accompanied by soft organ chords. The text of this movement is taken from the Gospel of John, "In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God." The movement builds to a climax with the choir singing "And the Word was made flesh and dwelt among us," before returning to the peaceful opening melody. The final movement returns to the joyful mood of the first, with the choir singing a lively setting of the traditional Christmas text "Gloria in excelsis Deo" (Glory to God in the highest). The organ accompaniment is full and energetic, with the choir singing in harmony and occasional unison. The movement ends with a triumphant final chord, bringing the piece to a joyful conclusion. Overall, 'Hodie Christus natus est' is a festive and uplifting Christmas carol, with a mix of joyful and contemplative moments. Mathias' use of syncopated rhythms and rich harmonies creates a sense of excitement and celebration, while the slower moments provide a contrast and depth to the piece. The carol has become a popular addition to Christmas choral repertoire and is often performed in churches and concert halls around the world.

More....