Review of Magnificat and Nunc dimittis, Organists’ Review (UK)

Houston Children’s Chorus commissioned this very fine setting for trebles in unison (with some divisi) and organ. Knaggs has a knack for word-painting and there’s much fun for young voices to to find in this marvellous setting – bursting with character, energy and attention to the text. Marked ‘spirited’ at the start, a better descriptive word could hardly be found. There’s enough challenge to provide wonderful teaching opportunities as well as enjoyment, and the voices get plenty of help from an excellent organ accompaniment, adding its own commentary on the text. This is assured stuff from a composer who is clearly ‘one to watch’. He has been composing an Ave Maria every year since 2005, intending to write 50, closing the project in 2054: time, perhaps, to check out the 15 written so far. –Rebecca Tavener

Magnificat and Nunc dimittis for treble choir + organ

Commissioned by: Houston Children’s Chorus, Stephen Roddy, cond.

Durata: ca. 4:30

Premiere:  12/17 at the Villa de Matel, Houston