Composer

:

William Mathias

Genre

:

Choral

Style

:

Choral

Average_duration

:

3:30

A Babe Is Born, Op. 55 is a choral work composed by Welsh composer William Mathias in 1976. The piece was premiered on December 16, 1976, by the BBC Singers at St. Paul's Church in Knightsbridge, London. The work is divided into three movements, each of which is based on a different Christmas carol. The first movement, "A Babe Is Born," is a lively and rhythmic setting of the traditional English carol. The second movement, "Lullay, Thou Little Tiny Child," is a gentle and tender lullaby based on the 15th-century English carol. The final movement, "Sing Lullaby," is a joyful and exuberant setting of the traditional English carol. Mathias' use of harmony and rhythm in A Babe Is Born, Op. 55 is characteristic of his style, which often incorporates elements of Welsh folk music and medieval polyphony. The work features rich harmonies, intricate counterpoint, and rhythmic complexity, all of which contribute to its festive and celebratory character. Overall, A Babe Is Born, Op. 55 is a vibrant and engaging choral work that captures the spirit of the Christmas season. Its three movements offer a range of moods and emotions, from the lively and rhythmic to the gentle and tender, culminating in a joyful and exuberant finale.

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