Composer

:

Via Olatunji

Genre

:

Choral

Style

:

Choral

Average_duration

:

4:47

'Betelehemu' is a popular Nigerian Christmas song composed by Via Olatunji. The song was first performed by the Morehouse College Glee Club in 1957 and has since become a staple in Christmas choral performances around the world. The song is written in the Yoruba language and is a celebration of the birth of Jesus Christ. The title 'Betelehemu' translates to 'Bethlehem' in English, which is the birthplace of Jesus according to the Bible. The song is divided into three movements, each with its own distinct characteristics. The first movement is a call-and-response section that features a soloist singing the main melody while the choir responds with a rhythmic chant. This section is characterized by its energetic and upbeat tempo, which sets the tone for the rest of the song. The second movement is a slower and more contemplative section that features a soloist singing a more melodic and emotional melody. This section is characterized by its use of harmonies and its more subdued tempo, which creates a sense of introspection and reflection. The final movement is a return to the energetic and upbeat tempo of the first movement. This section features a call-and-response between the choir and the soloist, with the choir responding with a rhythmic chant that builds in intensity as the song progresses. This section is characterized by its use of percussion instruments, which add to the overall energy and excitement of the song. Overall, 'Betelehemu' is a joyful and celebratory song that captures the spirit of Christmas in Nigeria. Its use of call-and-response, harmonies, and percussion instruments make it a popular choice for choral performances around the world.

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