Composer

:

Gerald Near

Genre

:

Choral

Style

:

Magnificat

Average_duration

:

4:41

Gerald Near's Magnificat is a choral work that was composed in 1989. It was premiered on December 10, 1989, by the Choir of St. John's Episcopal Church in Minneapolis, Minnesota, under the direction of the composer. The work is divided into six movements, each of which is based on a different section of the Magnificat text. The first movement, "Magnificat anima mea Dominum," is a joyful and exuberant setting of the opening lines of the Magnificat. The choir sings in unison, with occasional harmonies and counterpoint, and the organ provides a lively accompaniment. The second movement, "Et exultavit spiritus meus," is a solo for soprano and alto, accompanied by the choir and organ. The music is more contemplative and introspective than the first movement, reflecting the personal nature of Mary's response to the news of her pregnancy. The third movement, "Quia respexit humilitatem," is a duet for soprano and tenor, accompanied by the choir and organ. The music is gentle and flowing, with a sense of tenderness and compassion. The fourth movement, "Quia fecit mihi magna," is a solo for bass, accompanied by the choir and organ. The music is more declamatory and forceful than the previous movements, reflecting the power and majesty of God's actions. The fifth movement, "Et misericordia," is a duet for alto and tenor, accompanied by the choir and organ. The music is gentle and lyrical, with a sense of compassion and mercy. The final movement, "Gloria Patri," is a joyful and triumphant setting of the doxology. The choir sings in unison, with occasional harmonies and counterpoint, and the organ provides a lively accompaniment. Overall, Gerald Near's Magnificat is a beautiful and expressive choral work that captures the spirit and meaning of the Magnificat text. The music is varied and engaging, with a range of moods and emotions that reflect the different aspects of Mary's response to the news of her pregnancy. The work is well-suited for performance by church choirs and other vocal ensembles, and it is a valuable addition to the repertoire of contemporary sacred music.

More....