The Austin Canticles

Composer Alfred V. Fedak
Text Magnificat and Nunc Dimittis
Voicing SATB
Scripture Luke 1:46-55, 2:29-32
Length Magnificat 2' 35" Nunc dimittis 1' 50"
Price $2.50 (U.S.) Released 10/05
Catalog no. 410-925 Difficulty Moderately difficult

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Description
A Rite II setting of the canticles for evening prayer, commissioned by Good Shepherd Episcopal in Austin, Texas. Fedak's setting of the "Magnificat" begins with dance-like jubilance, moving naturally back and forth between triple and duple rhythms. By contrast, the "Nunc dimittis" is slow and serene; beginning with chant-like lines, it builds to a homophonic texture at the climax. The "Gloria" from the "Magnificat" returns to provide an energetic closing. Fedak's skillful and natural choral writing makes the work easy to learn and articulates the text clearly.

Anthem text
My soul proclaims the greatness of the Lord,
my spirit rejoices in God my Savior;
for he has looked with favor on his lowly servant.
From this day all generations will call me blessed:
the Almighty has done great things for me,
and holy is his Name.
He has mercy on those who fear him in every generation.
He has shown the strength of his arm,
he has scattered the proud in their conceit.
He has cast down the mighty from their thrones,
and has lifted up the lowly.
He has filled the hungry with good things,
and the rich he has sent away empty.
He has come to the help of his servant Israel,
for he has remembered his promise of mercy,
The promise he made to Abraham and his children for ever.
Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit:
as it was in the beginning, is now, and will be for ever. Amen.

Lord, you now have set your servant free
to go in peace as you have promised;
for these eyes of mine have seen the Savior,
whom you have prepared for all the world to see:
A light to enlighten the nations,
and the glory of your people Israel.

--Magnificat, Nunc dimittis, tr. Book of Common Prayer, 1979, Rite II

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