Composer

:

Christison

Style

:

Magnificat

Average_duration

:

4:22

The Magnificat is a choral work composed by Scottish composer, James MacMillan Christison. It was composed in 1999 and premiered on December 16th of the same year at the Royal Festival Hall in London. The work is divided into seven movements, each of which is based on a different verse from the Magnificat, a hymn of praise from the Gospel of Luke. The first movement, "Magnificat anima mea Dominum" (My soul magnifies the Lord), is a joyful and exuberant setting of the opening verse. The choir sings in unison, with the organ providing a lively accompaniment. The second movement, "Et exultavit spiritus meus" (And my spirit rejoices), is a more contemplative setting of the text. The choir sings in four-part harmony, with the organ providing a gentle accompaniment. The third movement, "Quia respexit humilitatem" (For he has looked with favor on the lowliness of his servant), is a solo for soprano and organ. The soprano sings a beautiful melody, accompanied by the organ, which represents the humble servant. The fourth movement, "Quia fecit mihi magna" (For he who is mighty has done great things for me), is a lively and rhythmic setting of the text. The choir sings in four-part harmony, with the organ providing a lively accompaniment. The fifth movement, "Et misericordia eius" (And his mercy is on those who fear him), is a solo for alto and organ. The alto sings a beautiful melody, accompanied by the organ, which represents the mercy of God. The sixth movement, "Fecit potentiam in brachio suo" (He has shown strength with his arm), is a lively and rhythmic setting of the text. The choir sings in four-part harmony, with the organ providing a lively accompaniment. The final movement, "Gloria Patri" (Glory to the Father), is a joyful and exuberant setting of the doxology. The choir sings in four-part harmony, with the organ providing a lively accompaniment. Overall, Christison's Magnificat is a beautiful and uplifting work that showcases the composer's skill in choral writing. The work is characterized by its use of lively rhythms, beautiful melodies, and rich harmonies, which combine to create a powerful and moving musical experience.

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