Froxfield Choir

Orlando Gibbons: Magnificat and Nunc Dimittis

from the Short Service

Gibbons (1583-1625) was not a prolific composer, but he produced works of melodic grace several of which are deservedly popular to this day. His Short Service is the earlier of his two services. It is written in the 'full' style, that is for four part choir, sometimes divided into two sides (Decani and Cantoris) but without the sections for soloists found in the 'verse' style of this date. The setting is simple yet polished, with hardly a note wasted and little contrapuntal elaboration.

My soul doth magnify the Lord: and my spirit hath rejoiced in God my Saviour.
For he hath regarded: the lowliness of his handmaiden.
For behold, from henceforth: all generations shall call me blessed.
For he that is mighty hath magnified me: and holy is his Name.
And his mercy is on them that fear him: throughout all generations.
He hath showed strength with his arm: he hath scattered the proud in the imagination of their hearts.
He hath put down the mighty from their seat: and hath exalted the humble and meek.
He hath filled the hungry with good things: and the rich he hath sent empty away.
He remembering his mercy hath holpen his servant Israel: as he promised to our forefathers, Abraham and his seed, for ever.

Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Ghost;
As it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, world without end. Amen.

Lord, now lettest thou thy servant depart in peace: according to thy word.
For mine eyes have seen: thy salvation,
Which thou hast prepared: before the face of all people;
To be a light to lighten the Gentiles: and to be the glory of thy people Israel.

Glory be to the Father, and to the Son: and to the Holy Ghost;
As it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be: world without end. Amen.