Composing this Magnificat was a meaningful endeavor for me. As I set out to set Mary's story for a large adult women's choir, my focus was on capturing her humilty and reverence as she rejoices in her calling. Composing for brass and choir allows for the creation of a musical dialogue between the two ensembles, with the organ serving as the harmonic foundation, and the percussion as the energy that propels the piece forward.
The Magnificat, also known as the Song of Mary, is a profound canticle found in the Gospel of Luke (1:46–55), traditionally attributed to the Virgin Mary upon her visit to her cousin Elizabeth. This sacred text is a poetic outpouring of praise and gratitude to God, celebrating His mercy, justice, and faithfulness. Beginning with the words “My soul magnifies the Lord,” Mary exalts God’s greatness, reflecting on His favor toward her and His mighty deeds for humanity. The text contrasts God’s uplifting of the humble with the humbling of the proud, emphasizing divine justice and compassion f
