Composer

:

Clifford Harker

Genre

:

Choral

Average_duration

:

6:27

Magnificat & Nunc Dimittis in A flat major is a choral work composed by Clifford Harker. The piece was composed in the early 20th century, with the exact date of composition unknown. It was premiered in 1922 at St. Paul's Cathedral in London, England. The work is divided into two movements, the Magnificat and the Nunc Dimittis. The Magnificat is a hymn of praise to the Virgin Mary, while the Nunc Dimittis is a canticle of Simeon, a devout Jew who recognized the infant Jesus as the Messiah. The Magnificat begins with a gentle and flowing melody in the sopranos, which is then taken up by the altos, tenors, and basses. The choir then sings a series of short phrases, each building on the previous one, until the music reaches a climax. The music then subsides, and the choir sings a quiet and reflective section, before building up to another climax. The Magnificat ends with a quiet and peaceful section, with the choir singing a series of "Amens." The Nunc Dimittis begins with a solo bass voice singing the opening lines, "Lord, now lettest thou thy servant depart in peace." The choir then joins in, singing a series of short phrases, each building on the previous one. The music then reaches a climax, before subsiding into a quiet and reflective section. The Nunc Dimittis ends with a quiet and peaceful section, with the choir singing a series of "Amens." The characteristics of Magnificat & Nunc Dimittis in A flat major are its gentle and flowing melodies, its use of short phrases building on each other, and its climactic moments. The work is also characterized by its reflective and peaceful sections, which provide a contrast to the more energetic and joyful sections. Overall, Magnificat & Nunc Dimittis in A flat major is a beautiful and uplifting choral work that showcases the talents of its composer, Clifford Harker.

More....