The University Choir will be performing two of the most famous works in the choral literature, namely The Symphony of Psalms by Stravinsky and Bach's Magnificat. Composed for the 50th anniversary of the Boston Symphony Orchestra, Stravinsky created a symphony-choral work unlike any of its predecessors. He chose the Latin (Vulgate) versions of Psalms 38, 39, and 150. When asked about the Symphony of Psalms, Stravinsky said:
"it is not a symphony in which I have included Psalms to be sung. On the contrary, it is the singing of the Psalms that I am symphonizing." (Stravinsky, 1930)
Referred to as the Canticle of Mary of Hymn of Mary, the Magnificat recalls one of Christianity’s most famous moments when Mary, the mother of Jesus, is told she will conceive and give birth to the Messiah. The choral works of J.S. Bach pose considerable technical challenges to amateur choirs, but The Magnificat is perhaps the most accessible. It includes all of the structural elements of the larger works, excellent writing, and an appealing blend of solo and choral moments. The entire work lasts less than 30 minutes.
