Composer

:

William H. Harris

Genre

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Choral

Style

:

Magnificat

Average_duration

:

2:27

"Nunc Dimittis In A" is a choral work composed by William H. Harris, an English organist and composer. The piece was composed in 1918 and premiered in the same year. It is a setting of the Nunc Dimittis, a canticle from the Gospel of Luke, which is traditionally sung at the end of the evening service of the Anglican Church. The piece is written for four-part choir, with the melody carried by the soprano and tenor voices. The harmonies are rich and complex, with frequent use of suspensions and dissonances. The piece is in the key of A major, and the opening chords are a striking and memorable feature of the work. The piece is divided into three movements. The first movement begins with a bold statement of the opening chords, followed by a more subdued section in which the choir sings the text "Lord, now lettest thou thy servant depart in peace." The movement ends with a return to the opening chords, this time with a more elaborate and extended harmonization. The second movement is a more reflective and introspective section, with the choir singing the text "For mine eyes have seen thy salvation." The harmonies are more subdued and contemplative, with a sense of awe and wonder at the revelation of God's salvation. The final movement is a triumphant and joyful section, with the choir singing the text "Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Ghost." The harmonies are more exuberant and celebratory, with a sense of praise and thanksgiving. Overall, "Nunc Dimittis In A" is a powerful and moving choral work, with rich harmonies and a sense of reverence and awe. It is a testament to Harris's skill as a composer and his deep faith in God.

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