Composer

:

Max Reger

Genre

:

Vocal

Style

:

Vocal Music

Compose Date

:

1912

Average_duration

:

1:55

"Der König aus dem Morgenland, Op. 76/60" is a choral work composed by Max Reger in 1904. The piece was premiered on December 18, 1904, in Leipzig, Germany, by the Thomanerchor under the direction of Karl Straube. The work is divided into three movements, each with its own distinct character. The first movement, "Einleitung" (Introduction), is a short instrumental prelude that sets the mood for the piece. It begins with a solemn, mysterious theme played by the strings, which is then taken up by the woodwinds and brass. The movement ends with a quiet, contemplative passage played by the strings. The second movement, "Die Weisen aus dem Morgenland" (The Wise Men from the East), is a choral setting of a poem by Friedrich Rückert. The text tells the story of the three wise men who follow a star to Bethlehem to worship the newborn Jesus. Reger's setting is rich and complex, with dense harmonies and intricate counterpoint. The choral parts are divided into multiple voices, creating a lush, full sound. The third movement, "Epilog" (Epilogue), is another instrumental section that brings the piece to a close. It begins with a reprise of the opening theme from the first movement, played by the strings. The theme is then developed and expanded upon, with the addition of new melodies and harmonies. The movement builds to a powerful climax before ending with a quiet, peaceful coda. Overall, "Der König aus dem Morgenland" is a complex and challenging work that showcases Reger's mastery of choral and orchestral writing. The piece is characterized by its rich harmonies, intricate counterpoint, and dramatic contrasts between loud and soft passages. Despite its difficulty, the work has become a staple of the choral repertoire and is widely performed today.

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