Composer

:

Arvo Pärt

Genre

:

Choral

Style

:

Magnificat

Compose Date

:

1989

Average_duration

:

6:59

Arvo Pärt's Magnificat is a choral work that was composed in 1989. It was premiered on December 9, 1990, by the Estonian Philharmonic Chamber Choir and the Tallinn Chamber Orchestra, conducted by Tõnu Kaljuste. The piece 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," is a joyful and exuberant setting of the opening verse. The choir sings in unison, accompanied by a lively string orchestra. The second movement, "Et exultavit spiritus meus," is a solo for soprano and strings. The soprano sings a soaring melody that expresses the joy and exultation of Mary's spirit. The third movement, "Quia respexit humilitatem," is a duet for alto and tenor. The two voices intertwine in a gentle and contemplative setting of the text. The fourth movement, "Quia fecit mihi magna," is a solo for bass and strings. The bass sings a powerful and declamatory melody that expresses the greatness of God's works. The fifth movement, "Et misericordia," is a duet for soprano and alto. The two voices weave together in a gentle and tender setting of the text. The sixth movement, "Fecit potentiam in brachio suo," is a solo for tenor and strings. The tenor sings a soaring melody that expresses the power and might of God's arm. The final movement, "Sicut locutus est," is a joyful and exuberant setting of the closing verse. The choir sings in unison, accompanied by a lively string orchestra. Overall, Pärt's Magnificat is characterized by its simplicity and clarity of expression. The composer's signature style of "tintinnabuli" is evident throughout the work, with its sparse and transparent textures and use of simple diatonic harmonies. The piece is a testament to Pärt's ability to create deeply spiritual and moving music with the most minimal of means.

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