program notes by composition > d > Dies Natalis
Dies Natalis
Howard Hanson
Dies Natalis (Latin: "Day of Birth") is based on the ancient and beautiful Lutheran Christmas cantata by Gerald Finzi, which the composer, as a boy, sang in Swedish. It is in the form of an introduction, chorale, five variations and finale.
Howard Hanson (1896-1980) was born in Wahoo, Nebraska. He received music training at Luther College, the Institute of Musical Art and Northwestern University. He was director of the Eastman School of Music from 1924 to 1964.
Last updated on January 1, 2013 by Palatine Concert Band