Composer

:

Peter Aston

Genre

:

Choral

Style

:

Magnificat

Average_duration

:

6:09

Movement_count

:

2

Movement ....

Peter Aston's Magnificat and Nunc Dimittis for chorus and organ in F major is a choral work that was composed in 1980. It was premiered on the 25th of January 1981 at the Chapel of St. John's College, Cambridge, by the St. John's College Choir, conducted by George Guest. 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 movement begins with a fanfare-like organ introduction, which is followed by the choir's entrance with the words "My soul doth magnify the Lord." The music is characterized by its rhythmic vitality, with the choir and organ interweaving in a lively and energetic dialogue. The movement reaches its climax with the words "He hath put down the mighty from their seat," which are sung with great fervor and intensity. The Nunc Dimittis, on the other hand, 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 movement begins with a gentle organ introduction, which sets the mood for the choir's entrance with the words "Lord, now lettest thou thy servant depart in peace." The music is characterized by its serene and contemplative quality, with the choir and organ weaving a delicate and intricate tapestry of sound. The movement reaches its climax with the words "A light to lighten the Gentiles," which are sung with a sense of awe and wonder. Overall, Peter Aston's Magnificat and Nunc Dimittis for chorus and organ in F major is a masterful work that showcases the composer's skill in writing for choir and organ. The work is characterized by its rhythmic vitality, its intricate harmonies, and its ability to capture the essence of the texts from the Gospel of Luke. It is a work that continues to be performed and enjoyed by choirs and audiences around the world.

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