Composer

:

Jean Sibelius

Genre

:

Miscellaneous

Style

:

Song Collection

Compose Date

:

1897 - 1913

Average_duration

:

13:00

Movement_count

:

5

Movement ....

Jean Sibelius, the renowned Finnish composer, wrote his 'Christmas Songs (5), Op. 1' in 1895. The work was premiered in Helsinki on December 22, 1895, by the Helsinki University Chorus, conducted by the composer himself. The five movements of the work are titled 'En etsi valtaa, loistoa' (I Seek Not Power, Splendor), 'Jouluaattona' (On Christmas Eve), 'Jo joutuu ilta' (The Evening Draws Near), 'Jouluyö, juhlayö' (Christmas Night, Festive Night), and 'Enkeli taivaan' (The Angel of Heaven). The first movement, 'En etsi valtaa, loistoa,' is a serene and contemplative piece that reflects the humility and simplicity of the Christmas story. The melody is gentle and flowing, with a sense of reverence and awe. The second movement, 'Jouluaattona,' is a lively and joyful piece that captures the excitement and anticipation of Christmas Eve. The music is bright and energetic, with a sense of celebration and merriment. The third movement, 'Jo joutuu ilta,' is a hauntingly beautiful piece that evokes the quiet stillness of the winter evening. The melody is simple and understated, with a sense of melancholy and longing. The fourth movement, 'Jouluyö, juhlayö,' is a grand and majestic piece that celebrates the birth of Christ. The music is bold and triumphant, with a sense of majesty and splendor. The final movement, 'Enkeli taivaan,' is a tender and touching piece that tells the story of the angel's announcement to the shepherds. The melody is gentle and soothing, with a sense of peace and comfort. The work as a whole is a beautiful and moving tribute to the Christmas story, with each movement capturing a different aspect of the holiday season. Sibelius's 'Christmas Songs (5), Op. 1' remains a beloved and cherished work in the classical repertoire.

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