Composer

:

Jan Sandström

Genre

:

Choral

Style

:

Choral

"Es ist ein Ros' entsprungen" is a Christmas carol that has been popular for centuries. The melody is believed to have originated in Germany in the 16th century, and the lyrics were written by an anonymous author. The carol has been set to music by many composers over the years, including Michael Praetorius, Johannes Brahms, and Hugo Distler. Jan Sandström, a Swedish composer, arranged "Es ist ein Ros' entsprungen" for choir and orchestra in 1990. The piece was premiered on December 16, 1990, by the Swedish Radio Choir and the Stockholm Chamber Orchestra, conducted by Tõnu Kaljuste. Sandström's arrangement of the carol is divided into three movements. The first movement is a slow and contemplative setting of the first verse of the carol. The choir sings the melody in unison, accompanied by a simple and sparse orchestration. The second movement is a lively and rhythmic setting of the second verse of the carol. The choir sings the melody in a fast and syncopated rhythm, accompanied by a lively and energetic orchestration. The third movement is a slow and majestic setting of the third verse of the carol. The choir sings the melody in a rich and harmonious texture, accompanied by a full and grand orchestration. Sandström's arrangement of "Es ist ein Ros' entsprungen" is characterized by its modern and innovative approach to the traditional carol. Sandström uses a variety of contemporary compositional techniques, such as aleatoric writing, extended vocal techniques, and unconventional orchestration, to create a unique and compelling interpretation of the carol. The piece is also notable for its use of silence and space, which creates a sense of stillness and contemplation throughout the work. Overall, Sandström's arrangement of "Es ist ein Ros' entsprungen" is a beautiful and moving interpretation of a beloved Christmas carol. Its modern and innovative approach to the traditional carol makes it a unique and compelling addition to the repertoire of Christmas music.

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