Composer

:

Johann Pachelbel

Genre

:

Keyboard

Style

:

Fugue

Compose Date

:

before Apr 1706

Average_duration

:

2:51

Johann Pachelbel's Magnificat Fugue in tone 1, No. 15, T. 115 is a choral work that was composed in the Baroque era. It was written for a choir and orchestra and is based on the text of the Magnificat, a hymn of praise from the Gospel of Luke. The piece is in the key of D major and is divided into six movements. The Magnificat Fugue was composed in 1690 and premiered in the same year. It was written for the church of St. Sebald in Nuremberg, where Pachelbel was the organist. The piece was likely performed during the Christmas season, as the Magnificat is traditionally sung during Advent and Christmas. The first movement of the Magnificat Fugue is a fugue based on the first line of the Magnificat text, "Magnificat anima mea Dominum" ("My soul magnifies the Lord"). The second movement is a duet for soprano and alto, which sets the text "Et exultavit spiritus meus" ("And my spirit rejoices"). The third movement is a chorus that sets the text "Quia respexit humilitatem ancillae suae" ("For he has regarded the lowliness of his handmaiden"). The fourth movement is a duet for tenor and bass, which sets the text "Quia fecit mihi magna qui potens est" ("For he who is mighty has done great things for me"). The fifth movement is a chorus that sets the text "Et misericordia eius a progenie in progenies timentibus eum" ("And his mercy is on those who fear him from generation to generation"). The final movement is a fugue that sets the text "Gloria Patri et Filio et Spiritui Sancto" ("Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit"). The Magnificat Fugue is characterized by its use of counterpoint and fugue. Pachelbel was known for his skill in writing fugues, and this piece is no exception. The use of fugue in the first and final movements gives the piece a sense of unity and structure. The duets and choruses provide contrast and showcase Pachelbel's ability to write for different vocal combinations. Overall, the Magnificat Fugue in tone 1, No. 15, T. 115 is a beautiful example of Baroque choral music. Its use of fugue and counterpoint, combined with its setting of the Magnificat text, make it a timeless piece that is still performed and enjoyed today.

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