Raphael Benjamin Meyer

Adventskalender

The Christmas story is said to have taken place in the West Bank a little over 2,000 years ago. In the Orient: with palm trees and camels. But without snow or reindeer. And without Santa Claus, too. Instead, the story tells of three wise astrologers—known today as the Three Wise Men—who followed the Star of Bethlehem to pay homage to Jesus at his manger.
In his "Advent Calendar," Raphael B. Meyer captures these atmospheric scenes. In addition to chorale-like movements and pieces in the old style, he has also woven Oriental elements into the music.
The 24 pieces included are scored for duo (melody and bass instruments), but the melody part can also be played as a solo. The pieces are kept fairly simple in terms of difficulty so that they can be played after a short practice session or even sight-read. The melody part is suitable for, among others, recorder (soprano, alto, or tenor), flute, oboe, violin, or viola da gamba. The bass part can be played on, for example, bassoon, cello, bass recorder, or viola da gamba. All movements include chord symbols, allowing harmony instruments to join in as well.

The publication is accompanied by high-quality demo and play-along recordings that can be downloaded or streamed.