Composer

:

Max Reger

Genre

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Keyboard

Style

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Keyboard

Compose Date

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1915 - 1916

Average_duration

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7:48

"Weihnachten, Op. 145/3" is a choral work composed by Max Reger in 1915. The piece was premiered on December 19, 1915, in Leipzig, Germany, by the Thomanerchor under the direction of Karl Straube. The work is divided into three movements, each of which is based on a different Christmas carol. The first movement is based on the carol "Es kommt ein Schiff, geladen" ("A ship is coming, loaded"), the second on "O du fröhliche" ("O you joyful"), and the third on "Vom Himmel hoch, da komm ich her" ("From heaven above to earth I come"). The first movement begins with a gentle, flowing melody in the upper voices, accompanied by a simple, repetitive pattern in the lower voices. The melody is then passed between the different sections of the choir, building to a climax before subsiding into a quiet, peaceful ending. The second movement is more lively and upbeat, with a jaunty melody and a driving rhythm. The choir sings the verses of the carol, while the refrain is sung by a soloist or small group of singers. The movement ends with a triumphant, joyful coda. The third movement is the longest and most complex of the three. It begins with a quiet, contemplative introduction before launching into a grand, majestic setting of the carol. The choir sings the verses, while the refrain is sung by a soloist or small group of singers. The movement features intricate harmonies and counterpoint, building to a powerful climax before subsiding into a quiet, peaceful ending. Overall, "Weihnachten, Op. 145/3" is a masterful work that showcases Reger's skill as a composer and his deep understanding of choral music. The piece is characterized by its rich harmonies, intricate counterpoint, and expressive melodies, and is a beloved addition to the repertoire of Christmas choral music.

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