Composer

:

Charles Wood

Genre

:

Choral

Style

:

Magnificat

Average_duration

:

7:38

Movement_count

:

2

Movement ....

Charles Wood's Magnificat & Nunc Dimittis for chorus & organ in D major is a choral work that was composed in the early 20th century. The piece was premiered in 1912 at St. Mark's Church in North Audley Street, London. It is a setting of the Magnificat and Nunc Dimittis texts, which are taken from the Gospel of Luke and are traditionally used in the Anglican liturgy. The Magnificat is a hymn of praise that is sung by the Virgin Mary after she learns that she will give birth to Jesus. The Nunc Dimittis is a song of thanksgiving that is sung by Simeon, a devout Jew who had been promised by God that he would not die until he had seen the Messiah. Both texts are sung in Latin in Wood's setting. The Magnificat & Nunc Dimittis for chorus & organ in D major is divided into two movements, one for each text. The Magnificat is set for four-part choir and organ, with the choir singing the text in unison at the beginning and end of the movement. The middle section of the Magnificat features a solo soprano singing the text "Quia respexit humilitatem ancillae suae" (For he has regarded the lowliness of his handmaiden). The Nunc Dimittis is also set for four-part choir and organ, with the choir singing the text in unison at the beginning and end of the movement. The middle section of the Nunc Dimittis features a solo bass singing the text "Quia fecisti secundum verbum tuum" (For you have fulfilled your word). Wood's setting of the Magnificat & Nunc Dimittis is characterized by its simplicity and clarity. The choral parts are straightforward and easy to sing, making the piece accessible to choirs of all levels. The organ part is also relatively simple, providing a supportive accompaniment to the choir. The overall effect is one of beauty and reverence, perfectly suited to the texts of the Magnificat and Nunc Dimittis.

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