Composer

:

Philip Wilby

Genre

:

Choral

Style

:

Choral

Average_duration

:

5:30

"The Word Made Flesh" is a choral work composed by Philip Wilby in 1991. It was premiered on December 15, 1991, by the choir of King's College, Cambridge, under the direction of Stephen Cleobury. The piece is divided into six movements, each of which explores a different aspect of the Christmas story. The first movement, "The Annunciation," sets the scene for the piece with a gentle, flowing melody that evokes the angel's visit to Mary. The second movement, "The Visitation," is more lively and rhythmic, reflecting the joyous meeting of Mary and Elizabeth. The third movement, "The Nativity," is the centerpiece of the work. It begins with a hauntingly beautiful solo soprano line, which is gradually joined by the rest of the choir. The music builds to a powerful climax as the choir sings "Glory to God in the highest," before subsiding into a peaceful lullaby for the baby Jesus. The fourth movement, "The Shepherds," is a lively and energetic piece that captures the excitement of the shepherds as they rush to see the newborn king. The fifth movement, "The Wise Men," is more contemplative, with a sense of awe and wonder as the magi approach the manger. The final movement, "The Word Made Flesh," brings the piece to a triumphant conclusion. The music is grand and majestic, with a sense of celebration and joy as the choir proclaims the birth of Christ. Throughout the piece, Wilby's use of harmony and counterpoint is masterful, creating a rich and complex tapestry of sound. The music is at times gentle and contemplative, at other times lively and exuberant, but always deeply expressive and emotionally powerful. Overall, "The Word Made Flesh" is a stunning work that captures the essence of the Christmas story with beauty, depth, and passion.

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