Composer

:

Robert Ashfield

Genre

:

Choral

Style

:

Magnificat

Compose Date

:

1991

Average_duration

:

9:08

Movement_count

:

2

Movement ....

Robert Ashfield's Magnificat and Nunc Dimittis in D is a choral work that was composed in the 20th century. The piece was premiered in 1965 and has since become a popular choice for church choirs and other vocal ensembles. The work is divided into two movements, each of which is based on a biblical text. The first movement, the Magnificat, is based on the text from the Gospel of Luke in which Mary praises God for the blessings he has bestowed upon her. Ashfield's setting of this text is characterized by its use of rich harmonies and soaring melodies. The piece begins with a gentle, flowing melody in the soprano voices, which is then taken up by the rest of the choir. The music gradually builds in intensity, with the choir singing in unison before breaking into a series of complex harmonies. The movement ends with a triumphant flourish, as the choir sings "Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Ghost." The second movement, the Nunc Dimittis, is based on the text from the Gospel of Luke in which Simeon praises God for allowing him to see the infant Jesus before he dies. Ashfield's setting of this text is more subdued than the Magnificat, with a slower tempo and more contemplative mood. The piece begins with a solo voice singing the opening lines of the text, before the choir joins in with a series of gentle harmonies. The music gradually builds in intensity, with the choir singing in unison before breaking into a series of complex harmonies. The movement ends with a quiet, peaceful coda, as the choir sings "Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Ghost." Overall, Robert Ashfield's Magnificat and Nunc Dimittis in D is a beautiful and moving choral work that showcases the composer's skill at creating rich harmonies and soaring melodies. The piece is a popular choice for church choirs and other vocal ensembles, and is sure to continue to be performed for many years to come.

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