Composer

:

Ivar Widéen

Genre

:

Miscellaneous

Style

:

Miscellaneous

Average_duration

:

2:24

"Star of Bethlehem" is a choral work composed by Ivar Widéen, a Swedish composer, in 1914. The piece was premiered on December 13, 1914, in Stockholm, Sweden, by the Orphei Drängar choir, conducted by Robert Sund. The piece is divided into three movements, each depicting a different aspect of the story of the Star of Bethlehem. The first movement, "The Star Rises," begins with a soft and mysterious introduction, building up to a grand choral entrance. The choir sings of the star's appearance in the sky, with the music evoking a sense of wonder and awe. The second movement, "The Wise Men," features a solo baritone singing the role of one of the wise men. The choir provides a gentle and supportive background, as the soloist sings of the journey to Bethlehem and the gifts they bring to the newborn king. The music is peaceful and reflective, with a sense of reverence for the holy event. The final movement, "The Star Fades," is the most dramatic of the three. The choir sings of the star's disappearance from the sky, with the music becoming increasingly intense and dissonant. The piece ends with a soft and peaceful resolution, as the choir sings of the hope and joy that the birth of Christ brings to the world. Overall, "Star of Bethlehem" is a beautiful and moving choral work, with lush harmonies and expressive melodies. Widéen's use of soloists and choir creates a sense of intimacy and grandeur, perfectly capturing the story of the Star of Bethlehem.

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