Composer

:

Jean Sibelius

Genre

:

Miscellaneous

Style

:

Miscellaneous

Compose Date

:

1929

Average_duration

:

2:14

The 'Christmas Song' is a choral work composed by the Finnish composer Jean Sibelius. It was composed in 1904 and premiered on Christmas Day of the same year in Helsinki, Finland. The piece is divided into three movements, each with its own distinct characteristics. The first movement, titled 'Giv mig ej glans, ej guld, ej prakt' (Give me no splendor, no gold, no pomp), is a slow and solemn hymn. The melody is simple and understated, with the choir singing in unison for much of the movement. The lyrics, written by the Swedish poet Edvard Evers, express a desire for a simple and humble Christmas, free from the trappings of wealth and materialism. The second movement, 'Julvisa' (Christmas Carol), is a lively and joyful song. The melody is upbeat and dance-like, with the choir singing in harmony and accompanied by a piano. The lyrics, also written by Evers, celebrate the joy and wonder of the Christmas season, with references to the birth of Jesus and the arrival of the Magi. The final movement, 'En etsi valtaa, loistoa' (I seek no power, no glory), returns to the solemn tone of the first movement. The melody is haunting and melancholy, with the choir singing in unison and accompanied by a solo violin. The lyrics, again written by Evers, express a desire for a Christmas that is focused on love and compassion, rather than power and glory. Overall, the 'Christmas Song' is a beautiful and moving choral work that captures the spirit of the holiday season. Sibelius' use of simple melodies and harmonies, combined with Evers' heartfelt lyrics, create a work that is both accessible and deeply meaningful.

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