Composer

:

Herbert Brewer

Genre

:

Choral

Style

:

Choral

Compose Date

:

1904

Herbert Brewer's "The Holy Innocents" is a choral work that was composed in 1911. It was premiered on December 28, 1911, at the Three Choirs Festival in Worcester, England. The work is divided into three movements, each of which is based on a different text from the Bible. The first movement, "The Slaughter of the Innocents," is based on the story of King Herod's massacre of the male infants in Bethlehem. The music is dark and foreboding, with dissonant harmonies and a sense of impending doom. The choir sings in a mournful, almost keening style, as if lamenting the loss of the innocent children. The second movement, "The Flight into Egypt," is based on the story of Mary, Joseph, and the infant Jesus fleeing to Egypt to escape Herod's wrath. The music is more hopeful and uplifting than the first movement, with brighter harmonies and a sense of forward motion. The choir sings in a more joyful, triumphant style, as if celebrating the escape of the holy family. The third movement, "The Return from Egypt," is based on the story of the holy family's return to Nazareth after Herod's death. The music is more peaceful and serene than the previous movements, with gentle harmonies and a sense of calm. The choir sings in a more contemplative, introspective style, as if reflecting on the journey that has brought them to this point. Overall, "The Holy Innocents" is a powerful and moving work that captures the tragedy and triumph of the Christmas story. Brewer's use of dissonance and harmony, as well as his skillful handling of the choir, creates a sense of drama and emotion that is both timeless and universal.

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