Euch ist ein Kindlein heut geborn. Luthers Weihnachtslieder in Sätzen aus der Reformationszeit

Featuring

Veronika Winter
Ina Siedlaczek
Simone Eckert
Ulrich Wedemeier
Jan Kobow
Michael Fuerst

Hamburger Ratsmusik
Anonymous
Heinrich Finck
Thomas Stoltzer
Anonymous (16th century)
Esaias Reusner
Lucas Osiander
Balthasar Resinarius
Johann Walter
Anonymous (Traditional)
Johannes Hartung
Paul Luetkeman
Moritz von Hessen-Kassel
Michael Praetorius
Pierre-Francisque Caroubel
Georg Polarus
Adam Gumpelzhaimer
Kaspar Othmayr
Johannes Stomius
Martin Agricola
Caelius Sedulius
Anonymous (15th century)
Hans Leo Hassler (von Roseneck)
Georg Forster
Johannes Eccard

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Historical Context

Martin Luther rejected the celebration of St. Nicholas's Day (December 6th), which traditionally included gift-giving, and instead promoted a new Christmas celebration with gifts from the 'Heilige Christ' (later 'Christkind').

Composition History

Between 1523 and 1543, Martin Luther wrote 36 songs, which quickly spread through the printing of the first hymnals.

Performer Biography

The Hamburger Ratsmusik, an ensemble revived in 1991 by viol da gamba player Simone Eckert, has a history dating back to the 16th century.

Compositional Technique

Martin Luther adapted old church hymns into German, re-wrote Psalms, transformed medieval 'Leisen' (songs with the refrain 'Kyrieleis') into strophic songs, or wrote entirely original texts and melodies.

Cultural Impact

Martin Luther's Christmas carols, written almost 500 years ago, are still strongly associated with the celebration of Christ's birth for many people.

Composer's Artistic Vision

Martin Luther emphasized the importance of music as a tool for preaching and as a therapy for the soul, drawing on his own experience as a singer and lutenist.