Composer

:

Hugo Distler

Genre

:

Choral

Style

:

Choral

Compose Date

:

1933

Average_duration

:

40:39

Movement_count

:

23

Movement ....

Die Weihnachtsgeschichte, Op. 10 is a choral work composed by Hugo Distler in 1933. It premiered on December 17, 1933, in Berlin, Germany. The work is divided into six movements and is based on the Christmas story from the Gospel of Luke. The first movement, "Vorspiel," is an instrumental introduction that sets the mood for the piece. It features a haunting melody played by the woodwinds and strings. The second movement, "Verkündigung," features the angel Gabriel announcing to Mary that she will give birth to Jesus. The music is joyful and celebratory, with the choir singing in unison and the orchestra providing a lively accompaniment. The third movement, "Geburt Christi," depicts the birth of Jesus in a manger. The music is quiet and reflective, with the choir singing in a gentle, almost lullaby-like manner. The fourth movement, "Hirten auf dem Felde," features the shepherds who were visited by angels and told of Jesus' birth. The music is lively and energetic, with the choir and orchestra creating a sense of excitement and wonder. The fifth movement, "Weise aus dem Morgenland," tells the story of the wise men who followed a star to find Jesus. The music is mysterious and exotic, with the choir and orchestra using Eastern-inspired melodies and rhythms. The final movement, "Anbetung der Hirten und der Weisen," brings the piece to a close with a triumphant celebration of Jesus' birth. The music is grand and majestic, with the choir and orchestra combining to create a powerful and uplifting finale. Overall, Die Weihnachtsgeschichte, Op. 10 is a beautiful and moving work that captures the spirit of Christmas. Distler's use of choral and orchestral textures, as well as his skillful handling of the source material, make this piece a timeless classic that continues to be performed and enjoyed today.

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