Composer

:

Benjamin Britten

Genre

:

Choral

Style

:

Suite

Compose Date

:

1931

Average_duration

:

16:38

Movement_count

:

5

Movement ....

"Christ's Nativity" is a choral work composed by Benjamin Britten in 1931. It was premiered on December 22, 1931, at St. John's College, Cambridge, by the college choir under the direction of George Guest. The work is divided into four movements, each depicting a different aspect of the Nativity story. The first movement, "Wolcum Yole!", is a joyful celebration of the arrival of Christmas. The choir sings a lively melody, accompanied by a bright and festive organ part. The second movement, "There is no Rose", is a more contemplative piece, featuring a solo soprano singing a haunting melody over a simple organ accompaniment. The third movement, "That yongë child", is a lively and rhythmic piece, featuring a solo tenor singing the role of the shepherds who have come to see the newborn Jesus. The choir joins in with a joyful refrain, celebrating the arrival of the Messiah. The final movement, "Balulalow", is a lullaby sung by Mary to her newborn son. The choir sings a gentle and soothing melody, accompanied by a soft and delicate organ part. The piece ends with a quiet and peaceful Amen. Overall, "Christ's Nativity" is a beautiful and evocative work that captures the spirit of the Christmas season. Britten's use of solo voices, choir, and organ creates a rich and varied texture that brings the Nativity story to life. The work is characterized by its joyful and celebratory tone, as well as its moments of quiet contemplation and reflection.

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