Composer

:

Edward Elgar

Genre

:

Choral

Style

:

Chorus

Compose Date

:

1928

Average_duration

:

4:11

"I Sing the Birth" is a choral work composed by Edward Elgar in 1914. It was premiered on December 22, 1914, at the Royal Albert Hall in London, conducted by the composer himself. The work is divided into three movements, each with its own distinct characteristics. The first movement, "The Word," begins with a gentle and peaceful introduction, featuring the choir singing the words "In the beginning was the Word." The music gradually builds in intensity as the choir sings of the creation of the world and the birth of Christ. The movement ends with a triumphant chorus proclaiming "And the Word was made flesh." The second movement, "The Shepherds," is a pastoral and lyrical section that depicts the shepherds watching their flocks by night. The choir sings of the angels appearing to the shepherds and announcing the birth of Christ. The music is gentle and serene, with a sense of wonder and awe. The final movement, "The Three Kings," is a grand and majestic section that features a solo baritone singing of the journey of the three kings to Bethlehem. The choir joins in with a triumphant chorus as the kings arrive and present their gifts to the newborn Christ. The music is powerful and majestic, with a sense of reverence and awe. Overall, "I Sing the Birth" is a beautiful and moving work that captures the wonder and majesty of the Christmas story. Elgar's use of choral and orchestral textures creates a rich and varied sound that perfectly complements the text. The work remains a popular choice for Christmas concerts and services to this day.

More....