Composer

:

Mönch von Salzburg (Herrmann)

Genre

:

Vocal

Style

:

Vocal Music

Average_duration

:

6:37

"Zu Weihnachten: Maria, keusche Muter zart, D7" is a Christmas carol composed by Mönch von Salzburg (Herrmann) in the 14th century. The exact date of composition is unknown, but it is believed to have been written between 1350 and 1370. The carol is written in Middle High German and is one of the oldest surviving Christmas carols. The carol has three movements, each with its own distinct characteristics. The first movement is a hymn to the Virgin Mary, praising her as the mother of Jesus. The second movement is a narrative of the Nativity, describing the birth of Jesus in Bethlehem. The third movement is a prayer for peace and goodwill on earth. The first movement begins with the words "Maria, keusche Muter zart" (Mary, chaste and tender mother). The melody is simple and repetitive, with a gentle rhythm that evokes a sense of calm and serenity. The lyrics praise Mary as the mother of Jesus, describing her as "the fairest of all women" and "the purest of all virgins." The movement ends with a plea to Mary to intercede on behalf of humanity, asking her to "pray for us sinners now and at the hour of our death." The second movement begins with the words "In Bethlehem geboren ist uns ein Kindelein" (In Bethlehem a little child is born to us). The melody is more lively and upbeat, with a faster tempo and a more complex rhythm. The lyrics describe the Nativity, with references to the shepherds, the angels, and the star of Bethlehem. The movement ends with a joyful proclamation of the birth of Jesus, declaring that "the Savior of the world is born." The third movement begins with the words "O du fröhliche, o du selige" (O how joyful, O how blessed). The melody is slower and more contemplative, with a mournful quality that reflects the prayerful nature of the lyrics. The movement is a prayer for peace and goodwill on earth, asking God to "bring peace to all nations" and to "fill our hearts with love and grace." The movement ends with a plea for God's mercy and forgiveness, asking for the strength to live a virtuous life and to be worthy of salvation. Overall, "Zu Weihnachten: Maria, keusche Muter zart, D7" is a beautiful and timeless Christmas carol that has been cherished by generations of Christians. Its simple melodies and heartfelt lyrics capture the essence of the Nativity story and the spirit of the holiday season.

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