Composer

:

Hugo Distler

Genre

:

Choral

Style

:

Choral

Average_duration

:

2:15

Hugo Distler's "In der Welt habt ihr Angst, Op.12/7" is a choral work that was composed in 1935. It was premiered in the same year in Leipzig, Germany. The piece is part of a larger collection of choral works called "Geistliche Chormusik," which was composed by Distler between 1933 and 1939. The piece is divided into three movements, each with its own distinct character. The first movement is marked "Langsam" (slow) and is characterized by a mournful, almost dirge-like quality. The second movement is marked "Schnell" (fast) and is much more lively and energetic. The final movement is marked "Langsam" (slow) and returns to the mournful character of the first movement. The text of the piece is taken from the Gospel of John, chapter 16, verses 33-34. The text speaks of the troubles and tribulations of the world, but also of the peace that can be found in Christ. The music reflects this dichotomy, with the mournful first and third movements representing the troubles of the world, and the lively second movement representing the hope and peace that can be found in Christ. The piece is scored for four-part choir (soprano, alto, tenor, and bass) and is accompanied by a small ensemble of instruments, including two violins, viola, cello, and organ. The instrumentation is sparse, but effective, allowing the voices to shine through and convey the emotional depth of the text. Overall, "In der Welt habt ihr Angst, Op.12/7" is a powerful and moving choral work that reflects the struggles and triumphs of the human experience. Distler's use of simple yet effective musical techniques, combined with the emotional depth of the text, make this piece a timeless masterpiece of choral music.

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