Composer

:

Einojuhani Rautavaara

Genre

:

Choral

Style

:

Hymn

Compose Date

:

1953 - 1995

First Performance

:

Sep 29, 1979

Average_duration

:

1:41

'Joulun virsi, elämän virsi' is a choral work composed by Einojuhani Rautavaara in 1978. The piece was premiered on December 17, 1978, by the Finnish Radio Chamber Choir under the direction of Eric-Olof Söderström. The work is divided into three movements, each with its own distinct character. The first movement, 'Joulun virsi' (Christmas Hymn), is a serene and contemplative setting of a Finnish Christmas hymn. The choir sings the hymn in unison, with the harmonies provided by a solo cello and organ. The movement is characterized by its simple, yet powerful, harmonies and the use of silence to create a sense of stillness and peace. The second movement, 'Elämän virsi' (Hymn of Life), is a more complex and dynamic setting of a poem by the Finnish poet Eino Leino. The choir sings the poem in four-part harmony, with the organ and cello providing a rich and varied accompaniment. The movement is characterized by its shifting harmonies and rhythms, as well as its use of dramatic contrasts between loud and soft, fast and slow. The final movement, 'Joulun virsi II' (Christmas Hymn II), is a reprise of the first movement, but with a more joyful and celebratory character. The choir sings the hymn in harmony, with the organ and cello providing a lively and energetic accompaniment. The movement is characterized by its use of syncopated rhythms and lively melodies, as well as its sense of exuberance and joy. Overall, 'Joulun virsi, elämän virsi' is a powerful and moving work that combines the traditional elements of Finnish choral music with Rautavaara's own unique style. The work is characterized by its use of simple yet powerful harmonies, its sense of stillness and peace, and its dynamic contrasts between loud and soft, fast and slow.

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