Nikolaus Herman

Nikolaus Herman was a German Lutheran teacher, composer, and hymn writer whose work contributed to the development of early Lutheran congregational song. Born in Bohemia, he later moved to Saxony where he worked as a teacher and church musician. Herman became associated with the Lutheran Reformation and devoted himself to composing hymns and sacred songs for schools and congregations. His hymns were written in clear language with simple melodies that encouraged participation by both children and adults. One of his best known hymns is Lo How a Rose Eer Blooming which celebrates the birth of Christ and the fulfillment of prophetic promise. Herman contributions helped establish a strong tradition of hymn singing in Lutheran education and worship during the sixteenth century.