Rutter's Magnificat, composed in early 1990, was inspired by the joyous outdoor celebrations of the Virgin Mary in countries like Spain, Mexico, and Puerto Rico.
Composition History
John Rutter's Requiem, written in 1985, is not a strict setting of the Catholic Requiem Mass but a personal selection of texts.
Compositional Technique
For his Magnificat, Rutter followed J. S. Bach's example by adding non-liturgical texts, including the old English poem 'Of a Rose' and the prayer 'Sancta Maria', to strengthen the Marian connection.
Notable Performances
John Rutter's Magnificat had its premiere in May 1990 at Carnegie Hall in New York.
Recording & Production
This album was recorded in the Great Hall of University College School, London, by the BBC Transcription Unit.
Compositional Technique
The seven sections of Rutter's Requiem form an arch-like meditation on life and death, with the first and last movements being prayers for humanity.
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