Composer

:

Johann Schelle

Genre

:

Choral

Style

:

Choral

Average_duration

:

8:31

Johann Schelle's 'Vom Himmel kam der Engel Schar' is a sacred cantata that was composed in the late 17th century. The piece was first performed in Leipzig, Germany, on Christmas Day in 1689. The cantata is divided into six movements, each of which is characterized by its own unique musical style and thematic content. The first movement, 'Vom Himmel kam der Engel Schar,' is a lively and joyful chorus that sets the tone for the entire cantata. The music is characterized by its bright and festive instrumentation, which includes trumpets, timpani, and strings. The choir sings in unison, with the melody moving quickly between the different vocal parts. The second movement, 'Und siehe, es war ein Engel des Herrn,' is a recitative that tells the story of the angel's visit to the shepherds. The music is more subdued than the first movement, with the focus on the soloist's voice and the accompanying harpsichord. The third movement, 'Und alsobald war da bei dem Engel,' is an aria that features a solo soprano. The music is slow and contemplative, with the soprano singing a melody that is both beautiful and haunting. The accompaniment is provided by a small ensemble of strings and harpsichord. The fourth movement, 'Ehre sei Gott in der Höhe,' is another lively chorus that celebrates the birth of Jesus. The music is characterized by its fast tempo and complex harmonies, with the choir singing in four-part harmony. The instrumentation is similar to the first movement, with trumpets, timpani, and strings providing a bright and festive sound. The fifth movement, 'Und da die Engel von ihnen gen Himmel fuhren,' is a recitative that tells the story of the shepherds' reaction to the angel's message. The music is once again more subdued than the previous movements, with the focus on the soloist's voice and the accompanying harpsichord. The final movement, 'Wir singen dir in deinem Heer,' is a chorale that brings the cantata to a close. The music is slow and contemplative, with the choir singing in four-part harmony. The instrumentation is minimal, with only a small ensemble of strings and harpsichord providing accompaniment. Overall, 'Vom Himmel kam der Engel Schar' is a beautiful and uplifting cantata that celebrates the birth of Jesus. The music is characterized by its complex harmonies, lively instrumentation, and beautiful melodies, making it a beloved piece of sacred music that is still performed today.

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