Manuel Grunden

Veni, Veni, Emmanuel

Over its long history, the Advent song Veni, veni, Emmanuel has been adapted time and again to create many different versions with their own unique melodies and textual variants. The melody from the German Protestant hymnal to the text O komm, o komm, du Morgenstern probably dates from the 15th century. Manuel Grunden’s arrangement of this version now places the hymn in a new light. While respecting the sacred majesty of the original, Grunden has created a simple six-part arrangement in which the melody wanders through the different voices, encircled by long, dynamically shaped sustained notes. As the piece progresses, the joyful anticipation of the Savior’s anticipated arrival is expressed in impressive and dramatic climaxes. At the same time, jazz/pop harmonies bring fresh color to the simple melody.

Offering a modern take on this very traditional song, Manuel Grunden’s piece can be easily integrated into any Advent concert program.