Composer

:

Percy Whitlock

Genre

:

Choral

Style

:

Magnificat

Average_duration

:

7:10

Percy Whitlock's Magnificat & Nunc Dimittis is a choral work that was composed in 1935. It was premiered on 22nd December 1935 at St. Stephen's Church, Bournemouth, England. The work is divided into two movements, the Magnificat and the Nunc Dimittis, which are based on the texts from the Gospel of Luke. The Magnificat is a hymn of praise that Mary sings after she learns that she will give birth to Jesus. Whitlock's setting of the Magnificat is in the key of E-flat major and is characterized by its joyful and exuberant nature. The opening section features a lively and rhythmic choral melody that is accompanied by a bright and energetic organ part. The middle section of the Magnificat is more reflective and features a solo soprano singing the words "He hath put down the mighty from their seat." The final section of the Magnificat returns to the joyful and exuberant mood of the opening, with the choir and organ building to a triumphant conclusion. The Nunc Dimittis is a hymn of praise that Simeon sings when he sees the infant Jesus in the temple. Whitlock's setting of the Nunc Dimittis is in the key of B-flat major and is characterized by its peaceful and contemplative nature. The opening section features a gentle and flowing choral melody that is accompanied by a soft and delicate organ part. The middle section of the Nunc Dimittis features a solo bass singing the words "For mine eyes have seen thy salvation," which is followed by a return to the gentle and flowing choral melody of the opening. The final section of the Nunc Dimittis is a quiet and peaceful conclusion, with the choir and organ fading away to nothing. Overall, Whitlock's Magnificat & Nunc Dimittis is a beautiful and uplifting choral work that showcases his skill as a composer. The work is characterized by its joyful and exuberant nature in the Magnificat and its peaceful and contemplative nature in the Nunc Dimittis. The work has become a staple of the choral repertoire and is frequently performed in churches and concert halls around the world.

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