Composer

:

Johann Sebastian Bach

Genre

:

Choral

Style

:

Chorale

Compose Date

:

before 1751

Publication Date

:

1784 - 1787

Average_duration

:

1:20

"Meine Seele erhebt den Herrn" (My soul magnifies the Lord) is a sacred canticle composed by Johann Sebastian Bach. It is also known as the "Magnificat" and is based on the biblical text of the same name. The canticle is a hymn of praise to God, and Bach's setting of it is one of his most famous and beloved works. Bach composed "Meine Seele erhebt den Herrn" in Leipzig in 1723. It was first performed on December 25 of that year as part of the Christmas Vespers service at the Thomaskirche. The canticle is divided into twelve movements, each of which corresponds to a section of the Magnificat text. The first movement is a choral setting of the opening lines of the Magnificat, "Meine Seele erhebt den Herrn" (My soul magnifies the Lord). It is a joyful and exuberant piece, with a lively tempo and intricate counterpoint. The second movement is a duet for soprano and alto, "Et exultavit spiritus meus" (And my spirit rejoices), which is more subdued and introspective. The third movement is a choral setting of the next section of the Magnificat, "Quia respexit humilitatem" (For he has regarded the lowliness). It is a gentle and tender piece, with a flowing melody and rich harmonies. The fourth movement is a bass aria, "Quia fecit mihi magna" (For he who is mighty has done great things for me), which is a more dramatic and forceful piece. The fifth movement is a choral setting of the next section of the Magnificat, "Et misericordia eius" (And his mercy is on those who fear him). It is a serene and peaceful piece, with a simple melody and delicate harmonies. The sixth movement is a duet for soprano and bass, "Fecit potentiam in brachio suo" (He has shown strength with his arm), which is a more lively and energetic piece. The seventh movement is a choral setting of the next section of the Magnificat, "Deposuit potentes de sede" (He has put down the mighty from their thrones). It is a powerful and majestic piece, with a grandiose melody and bold harmonies. The eighth movement is a soprano aria, "Esurientes implevit bonis" (He has filled the hungry with good things), which is a more tender and intimate piece. The ninth movement is a choral setting of the next section of the Magnificat, "Suscepit Israel puerum suum" (He has helped his servant Israel). It is a joyful and celebratory piece, with a lively tempo and intricate counterpoint. The tenth movement is a tenor aria, "Sicut locutus est" (As he spoke to our fathers), which is a more contemplative and introspective piece. The eleventh movement is a choral setting of the next section of the Magnificat, "Gloria Patri" (Glory be to the Father). It is a triumphant and exultant piece, with a grandiose melody and bold harmonies. The twelfth and final movement is a choral setting of the opening lines of the Magnificat, "Meine Seele erhebt den Herrn" (My soul magnifies the Lord), which is a reprise of the first movement. Overall, "Meine Seele erhebt den Herrn" is a magnificent and awe-inspiring work, showcasing Bach's mastery of counterpoint, harmony, and melody. It is a testament to his deep faith and devotion, and remains one of the most beloved and enduring works of the Baroque era.

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