Hodie Christus Natus Est

Description

Violin 1, Violin 2, Violin 3, Viola, Cello, Bass, Piano — Hodie Christus Natus Est by Jan Pieterszoon Sweelinck (1562-1621) is an extremely popular Renaissance a cappella choral work that has been transcribed for string orchestra. Although the work is usually associated with the Christmas season, it is a timeless piece that can be programmed at any time during the school year. The string parts mirror the voice parts, but are in the more comfortable key of G major, rather than the original B≤ major. String teachers may want to consult with their choral counterparts to determine if combining their groups might provide a unique experience for all of their students.All the string parts remain in first position. The work contains the less common alternating meters of ëand ò, and will provide students with insight into the unique rhythmic style of the Renaissance period. A piano part is included for rehearsal purposes.Performance suggestions: By listening to a recording of the original vocal performance and focusing on the lyrics, students will understand where to use a connected legato bowing style for running eighth-note passages and for the longer note durations, as expressed in the lyric “Ho-di-e, Ho-di-e” that alternates with a light detached style “No-e, No –e, No-e.” A most recent YouTube link is suggested here: www.youtube.com/watch?v=B2rAkZE5UU0 Hodie Christus Natus Est, by Jan Pieters Sweelinck (1562-1621), is an extremely popular Renaissance a cappella choral work that has been transcribed for string orchestra. Although the work is usually associated with the Christmas season, it is a timeless piece that can be programmed at anytime during the school year.

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