Composer

:

Stephen Cleobury

Style

:

Magnificat

Average_duration

:

3:10

Stephen Cleobury's Magnificat is a choral work that was composed in 1990. It was premiered on May 12, 1990, at the Chapel of King's College, Cambridge, by the King's College Choir, conducted by the composer himself. 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 lively and joyful setting of the opening lines of the Magnificat. The choir sings in unison, with the organ providing a bright and energetic accompaniment. The second movement, "Et exultavit spiritus meus," is a solo for soprano, accompanied by the choir and organ. The music is more contemplative and introspective than the first movement, reflecting the personal nature of the text. The third movement, "Quia respexit humilitatem," is a duet for alto and tenor, accompanied by the choir and organ. The music is gentle and flowing, with the two voices intertwining in a beautiful and expressive dialogue. The fourth movement, "Quia fecit mihi magna," is a solo for bass, accompanied by the choir and organ. The music is grand and majestic, reflecting the power and glory of God. The fifth movement, "Et misericordia," is a duet for soprano and alto, accompanied by the choir and organ. The music is tender and compassionate, reflecting the mercy and compassion of God. The final movement, "Gloria Patri," is a triumphant setting of the doxology, with the choir and organ building to a powerful and joyful conclusion. Overall, Cleobury's Magnificat is a beautiful and expressive work that showcases the composer's skill in writing for choir and organ. The music is both joyful and contemplative, reflecting the many moods and emotions of the Magnificat text.

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