Composer

:

Felix Mendelssohn

Genre

:

Choral

Style

:

Anthem

Compose Date

:

Dec 15, 1843

Publication Date

:

1849

First Performance

:

Dec 24, 1843

Average_duration

:

1:31

"Frohlocket, ihr Völker" (Rejoice, ye people) is a choral work composed by Felix Mendelssohn in 1843. It is the first movement of his Op. 79, a set of three sacred choral pieces for mixed choir and orchestra. The piece was premiered on December 17, 1843, in Leipzig, Germany, with the composer conducting. The work is based on a text from the Old Testament book of Isaiah, chapter 9, verses 1-6, which prophesies the birth of a child who will bring peace and salvation to the world. The text is in German and is set to music in a joyful and celebratory style, with a lively tempo and bright orchestration. The piece begins with a fanfare-like introduction in the orchestra, followed by the choir's entrance with the words "Frohlocket, ihr Völker, der Herr ist nah" (Rejoice, ye people, the Lord is near). The choir then sings a series of exultant phrases, punctuated by orchestral interludes, that describe the coming of the Messiah and the joy that his birth will bring. The second section of the piece features a solo soprano singing the words "Denn uns ist ein Kind geboren" (For unto us a child is born), accompanied by a gentle orchestral accompaniment. The choir then joins in with a repeat of the opening section, building to a triumphant climax with the words "Und er heißt wunderbar, Rat, Held, Ewig-Vater, Friedefürst" (And he shall be called Wonderful, Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace). The final section of the piece is a reprise of the opening fanfare and choral phrases, with the addition of a coda that brings the work to a joyful and exultant close. Overall, "Frohlocket, ihr Völker" is a vibrant and uplifting choral work that showcases Mendelssohn's skill in writing for choir and orchestra. Its joyful and celebratory character makes it a popular choice for Christmas and other festive occasions.

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