Composer

:

Herbert Howells

Genre

:

Choral

Style

:

Choral

Compose Date

:

1945

Average_duration

:

9:23

Movement_count

:

2

Movement ....

Herbert Howells' 'Magnificat and Nunc Dimittis, for chorus & organ (Collegium Regale)' is a choral work that was composed in 1945. It was premiered on 5th May 1946 at King's College, Cambridge, by the King's College Choir, conducted by Boris Ord. The work is divided into two movements, the Magnificat and the Nunc Dimittis, which are based on the texts from the Gospel of Luke. The Magnificat is a joyful and exuberant setting of Mary's song of praise, which she sings after being told by the angel Gabriel that she will give birth to Jesus. The music is characterized by its soaring melodies, rich harmonies, and intricate counterpoint. The opening section is sung by the choir in unison, with the organ providing a gentle accompaniment. The music gradually builds in intensity, with the choir singing in four-part harmony and the organ playing a more prominent role. The climax of the movement is reached with the words "He hath put down the mighty from their seat", which are sung with great power and conviction. The Nunc Dimittis is a more reflective and introspective setting of Simeon's song of praise, which he sings after seeing the infant Jesus in the temple. The music is characterized by its gentle and contemplative mood, with the choir singing in a more subdued manner and the organ providing a delicate accompaniment. The opening section is sung by the choir in unison, with the organ playing a simple melody in the background. The music gradually becomes more complex, with the choir singing in four-part harmony and the organ playing a more intricate accompaniment. The movement ends with a quiet and peaceful coda, with the choir singing the words "to be a light to lighten the Gentiles" in a hushed and reverent manner. Overall, Howells' 'Magnificat and Nunc Dimittis, for chorus & organ (Collegium Regale)' is a beautiful and moving choral work that showcases the composer's mastery of harmony, counterpoint, and choral writing. The work is characterized by its soaring melodies, rich harmonies, and intricate counterpoint, and is a testament to Howells' skill as a composer.

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