Christmas Cantata

IN D MAJOR

OPUS 56

Prophecies in the Old Testament come true as Jesus is born to redeem God's people.

PDF sheet music

Full score Vocal part Organ part Piano part

I. Isaiah's Prophecy (D major, sonata form with introduction)

As foretold by Isaiah the prophet, a descendant of King David is born of a virgin to bring peace across the world.

Introduction

mm. 1-16: Theme A (D minor). Text: 7:13-15 (Emmanuel and the virgin birth)

Exposition

mm. 17-33: Theme B (D major). Text: 11:1-2 ("A Rod from the stem of Jesse")
34-43: transition. Text: 11:3 ("His delight is in the fear of the Lord")
44-59: Theme C (A major). Text: 11:4-5 ("But with righteousness He'll judge the poor")

Development

60-79: Theme A (A minor). Instrumental break

II. Magnificat and Ave Maria (G major, ternary form)

The Magnificat is the Virgin Mary's song of praise as God chooses her to bear the Holy Child. We, as Christians, then honor Mary by asking her to pray on our behalf (Ave Maria).

III. Canticle of Zechariah (D major, rondo form)

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