Composer

:

Virgil Thomson

Genre

:

Choral

Style

:

Choral

Compose Date

:

1937

Average_duration

:

12:19

Movement_count

:

3

Movement ....

Scenes from the Holy Infancy According to Saint Matthew is a choral work composed by Virgil Thomson in 1947. The piece was premiered on December 21, 1947, by the New York Philharmonic under the direction of Leonard Bernstein. The work is divided into three movements, each depicting a different scene from the Gospel of Matthew. The first movement, titled "The Wise Men," is a lively and rhythmic depiction of the journey of the Magi to Bethlehem. The music is characterized by a driving, syncopated rhythm and colorful orchestration, including the use of percussion instruments such as tambourines and castanets. The choir sings in a lively, dance-like rhythm, with the text describing the journey of the Wise Men and their gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh. The second movement, "The Flight into Egypt," is a more somber and reflective piece. The music is characterized by a slow, mournful melody in the strings, with the choir singing in a hushed, reverent tone. The text describes the flight of Mary, Joseph, and the infant Jesus into Egypt to escape the wrath of King Herod. The music builds to a climax as the choir sings of the Holy Family's safe arrival in Egypt. The final movement, "The Massacre of the Innocents," is a dramatic and powerful piece. The music is characterized by dissonant harmonies and jagged rhythms, reflecting the violence and chaos of the massacre. The choir sings in a frenzied, almost panicked tone, with the text describing the slaughter of the innocent children by Herod's soldiers. The music builds to a climax as the choir sings of the grief and mourning of the mothers of the slain children. Overall, Scenes from the Holy Infancy According to Saint Matthew is a powerful and evocative work, showcasing Thomson's skillful use of orchestration and choral writing to bring the story of the Nativity to life. The piece is a testament to Thomson's unique style, which blended elements of American folk music with classical forms and techniques.

More....