Jan Dismas Zelenka, a Bohemian-born composer and double bass player in the Dresden court orchestra, never achieved his ambition of becoming Kapellmeister.
Composer Biography
Johann Kuhnau, Bach's predecessor as Kantor at the Thomaskirche in Leipzig, influenced church music there for approximately 20 years until his death.
Historical Context
During the Baroque period in the 17th century, Magnificat settings began to feature varied elements like solo, chorus, and instrumental components, a style known as 'seconda prattica'.
Historical Context
The Magnificat, a song of praise by Mary from St. Luke's Gospel, is one of the most frequently set texts in Western music history.
Recording & Production
This CD was recorded in the Kobe Shoin Women's University Chapel, completed in 1981, which was designed with exceptional acoustics for musical events, especially organ concerts.
Performer Biography
Masaaki Suzuki, the conductor and music director of the Bach Collegium Japan, began playing the organ for church services at the age of 12.
Historical Context
In Bach's time, the Magnificat was sung at evening services in Leipzig, with a polyphonic Latin setting reserved for major festivals like Christmas, Easter, and Ascension.
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