Composer

:

Peter Cornelius

Genre

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Miscellaneous

Style

:

Miscellaneous

Average_duration

:

2:43

"Drei Kön'ge Wandern Aus Morgenland" is a choral work composed by Peter Cornelius in 1856. The piece is also known as "The Three Kings" or "We Three Kings" and is a popular Christmas carol. The piece premiered in 1857 in Vienna, Austria. The piece is divided into three movements, each representing one of the three kings who traveled to Bethlehem to visit the baby Jesus. The first movement is sung by the bass soloist and represents King Melchior. The second movement is sung by the tenor soloist and represents King Caspar. The third movement is sung by the alto soloist and represents King Balthazar. The choir joins in for the final movement, which brings all three kings together. The piece is characterized by its rich harmonies and use of chromaticism. The opening bass solo is accompanied by a simple piano accompaniment, which gradually builds in complexity as the piece progresses. The tenor solo is accompanied by a more lively and rhythmic piano accompaniment, while the alto solo is accompanied by a more subdued and contemplative piano accompaniment. The piece is notable for its use of word painting, where the music reflects the meaning of the text. For example, the bass soloist sings "gold, frankincense, and myrrh" and the music becomes more ornate and rich, reflecting the value of these gifts. The tenor soloist sings "star with royal beauty bright" and the music becomes more majestic and regal. Overall, "Drei Kön'ge Wandern Aus Morgenland" is a beautiful and evocative choral work that captures the spirit of the Christmas season. Its rich harmonies and use of word painting make it a timeless classic that is still performed and enjoyed today.

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