Maria durch ein Dornwald ging | Maria, Herran piikanen | Maria går bland törnrossnår

"Maria durch ein Dornwald ging" is an old advent song. It was first published in Germany in 1850, but its origins go back much further, maybe even to the 16th century - although there's no definite source. It was originally a pilgrimage song which later in the beginning on the 20th century became an advent song. In Finland, it is usually sung at Christmastime. This song has for long been one of our favourites due to its beautiful melody, which sounds archaic and mysterious. That mood fits the words, which describe the pregnant Virgin Mary walking through barren thorns that, with her passing, burst into bloom. We have performed the song in many guises in the past in our Christmas concerts, and for this video, we chose a combination of several approaches: three different languages, a trinity of tonalities and a trio of instruments. We had a location in mind for the shoot, but due to circumstances we had to find a new place at a day's notice - almost too late! The change turned out to be fortunate: we got a chance to film in this ancient, ravishingly beautiful church, the oldest parts of which date back to the 14th century. We hope to return there for more videos! Maria durch ein Dornwald ging /Maria går bland törnrossnår (Svensk text Ulla Hornborg) /Maria, Herran piikanen (suom. Anna-Maija Raittila) Performed by ARPA ΩSCURA Anneliina Rif - soprano & recorder Tuomas Kourula - theorbo & archlute Thanks for assistance to Hanna Kourula and Rymättylä parish for allowing us to use their church.