Rheinberger's Der Stern von Bethlehem shines in reissue

Why isn't "Der Stern von Bethlehem" a holiday staple, like that Handel joint? I have a theory.

Joseph Rheinberger composed his cantata in 1890. During his lifetime it was one of his most-performed choral works. After his death in 1901, though, it lapsed into obscurity.

Rheinberger's style was influenced by the German greats: Brahms, Mendelssohn, Schubert, and Bach. "Der Stern" has the rich, late-Romantic harmonies of Brahms. They support flowing Schubert-like melodies.

I suspect that by the 1910s Rheinberger's work sounded old-fashioned. And it's taken a very long time to re-evaluate that assessment. And it should be reassessed. This is well-crafted music.

Rheinberger was a church organist and knew how to write for choirs. The choruses in "Der Stern von Bethlehem" show the hand of a master. The harmonies are full, and yet the text is easy to follow. Rheinberger was sparing in his use of counterpoint, ensuring clarity.

The text is by his wife, the poet Franziska "Fanny" von Hoffnaass. It's a simple retelling of the Christmas story, illustrated by the music. It's a gorgeous work that should enchant any listener (well, it did me).

This is a reissue of a 1999 release. Although the sound is quite good, it lacks the fine details of modern recordings. That's not a disadvantage. Rheinberger's late-Romantic style benefits from the slight softness of the sound. To me, it adds to the warmth of the music.

The Universitatschor Dresden has a creamy ensemble blend. Dilek Gecer and Michael Jungeare fine soloists. Gecer's delivery seemed a little dated by 2021 standards, but not horribly so.

I applaud Ars Produktion's decision to release this remastered classic. And especially to do on a high-resolution multi-channel disc. The rich harmonies can wash over the listener in surround sound.

If you purchase a download of this release, be sure to opt for the highest resolution offered. It does make a difference.

Joseph Gabriel Rheinberger
Der Stern von Bethlehem; Advent Motets
Dilek Gecer, soprano; Michael Junge, baritone
Universitatschor Dresden, Maja Sequeira, director
Vogtland Philharmonie Greiz/Reichenbach; Stefan Fraas, conductor
Ars Produktion SACD