James MacMillan

Magnificat und Nunc Dimittis

Composer's Notes:
The Magnificat was commissioned by the BBC for the first choral evensong of the new Millennium, at Wells Cathedral. There are two versions, one for orchestra and choir and one for organ and choir. The choral writing is simple and homophonic, each phrase punctuated by an introspective instrumental echo. The music gradually builds to a joyous climax in the doxology.
The Nunc Dimittis was commissioned by Winchester Cathedral and is based on similar material. Some of the organ interjections are audibly recognisable from the Magnificat, but the vocal lines have been modally altered. The principal feature of this movement is an unusual unison melody involving treble, alto and tenor voices, with the sesquialtera stop. Some of the climactic music from the Magnificat is recalled for the final Amen. The work opens and closes with quiet ethereal low notes on the organ and in the basses.