Composer

:

Max Reger

Genre

:

Choral

Style

:

Choral

Compose Date

:

1903

Average_duration

:

8:24

"Vom Himmel hoch" is a choral work composed by Max Reger in 1900. The piece is based on the traditional German Christmas carol of the same name, which translates to "From Heaven Above to Earth I Come." Reger's version of the carol is written for SATB choir and organ, and it is divided into four movements. The premiere of "Vom Himmel hoch" took place on December 16, 1900, in Leipzig, Germany. The performance was conducted by Karl Straube, and the choir was the Thomanerchor, which is the choir of the Thomaskirche in Leipzig. The piece was well-received by the audience and has since become a staple of the Christmas choral repertoire. The first movement of "Vom Himmel hoch" is a chorale prelude for organ. It is a simple and straightforward setting of the carol melody, with the choir singing the first verse of the carol in unison. The organ provides a rich harmonic accompaniment, with occasional flourishes and interludes. The second movement is a four-part setting of the carol for choir. Reger's harmonies are lush and complex, with frequent modulations and chromaticism. The choir sings the first verse of the carol in unison, and then the subsequent verses are sung in four-part harmony. The organ provides a subtle accompaniment, with occasional interjections and flourishes. The third movement is a solo for alto or baritone, accompanied by the organ. The soloist sings a setting of the carol text that is different from the traditional verses. Reger's harmonies are again complex and chromatic, with frequent modulations. The organ provides a rich and supportive accompaniment, with occasional interjections and flourishes. The final movement is a fugue for choir and organ. The choir sings the carol melody in canon, with each voice entering one after the other. The organ provides a complex and virtuosic accompaniment, with frequent interjections and flourishes. The fugue builds to a grand climax, with the choir and organ combining in a triumphant conclusion. Overall, "Vom Himmel hoch" is a complex and challenging work that showcases Reger's mastery of choral and organ composition. The piece is a testament to the enduring popularity of the traditional German Christmas carol, and it remains a beloved part of the Christmas choral repertoire.

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