Composer

:

Herbert Howells

Genre

:

Choral

Style

:

Magnificat

Average_duration

:

8:47

Movement_count

:

2

Movement ....

Herbert Howells' Magnificat and Nunc Dimittis for the Collegiate Church of Saint Peter in Westminster is a choral work that was composed in 1952. It was premiered on October 7, 1952, at the Collegiate Church of Saint Peter in Westminster, London, by the choir of Westminster Abbey, conducted by Douglas Guest. The work is divided into two movements, the Magnificat and the Nunc Dimittis, which are both settings of the canticles from the Gospel of Luke. The Magnificat is a hymn of praise that Mary sings after being told by the angel Gabriel that she will give birth to Jesus. The Nunc Dimittis is a song of thanksgiving that Simeon sings after seeing the baby Jesus in the temple. The Magnificat begins with a solo soprano voice singing the opening lines, "My soul doth magnify the Lord, and my spirit hath rejoiced in God my Saviour." The choir then joins in, singing in unison before breaking into four-part harmony. The music is characterized by its lush harmonies and soaring melodies, which reflect the joy and exaltation of Mary's words. The Nunc Dimittis, in contrast, is more subdued and introspective. It begins with a solo bass voice singing the opening lines, "Lord, now lettest thou thy servant depart in peace, according to thy word." The choir then joins in, singing in four-part harmony. The music is characterized by its gentle, flowing melodies and rich harmonies, which reflect the sense of peace and contentment expressed in Simeon's words. Overall, Howells' Magnificat and Nunc Dimittis for the Collegiate Church of Saint Peter in Westminster is a beautiful and moving choral work that showcases the composer's skill in creating rich, expressive harmonies and melodies. Its premiere at Westminster Abbey was a great success, and it has since become a beloved part of the choral repertoire.

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