Tuesday 11 December 2018
Tune of the Day: Vom Himmel hoch, da komm ich her
Popular German hymn tune and carol
“Vom Himmel hoch, da komm ich her” (most often translated as “From Heaven Above to Earth I Come”, although a more literal translation would be “From High in the Heavens, that's where I come from”) is a hymn text about the Nativity of Jesus, written by Martin Luther in 1534. The hymn is most often sung to a melody that first appeared in 1539, and that was likely composed by Luther as well. This version quickly became a classic Christmas carol, and many famous composers referred to it in their compositions, including Eccard, Praetorius, Pachelbel, J.S. Bach, J.C. Bach, von Weber, Mendelssohn, Stravinsky, and many others.
Thanks to Gabriela for suggesting this tune!