J.S. Bach’s Magnificat, BWV 243, is considered one of his most significant and paramount works. Initially composed for Christmas Day 1723 in E-flat major, he eventually adapted the piece by removing the Christmas interpolations to allow for greater accessibility for all feast days. During this time, he also transposed the work to D major, which evokes a greater brilliance from the strings and trumpets. Written for five-part mixed choir, full orchestra and organ, this work exemplifies his contrapuntal style and fugal intent for voice and instrument. The text comes from the Gospel according to Saint Luke (1:46-55). From the Virgin Mary’s point of view, she professes thanksgiving and gratitude for the Annunciation of the Immaculate Conception.

I. Magnificat

Magnificat, anima mea, Dominum.

My soul doth magnify the Lord.

II. Et exultavit spiritus meus

Et exultavit spiritus meus in Deo salutari meo.

And my spirit hath rejoiced in God my Savior.

III. Quia respexit humilitatem

Quia respexit humilitatem ancillæ suæ: 
ecce enim ex hoc beatam me dicent.

Because he hath regarded the humility of his handmaid:
for behold from henceforth all generations shall call me blessed.

IV. Omnes generationes

Omnes generationes

All generations

V. Quia fecit mihi magna

Quia fecit mihi magna, qui potens est,
et sanctum nomen eius.

Because he that is mighty hath done great things to me:
and holy is his name.

VI. Et misericordia

Et misericordia eius a progenie
in progenies timentibus eum.

And his mercy is from generation unto generations,
to them that fear him.

VI. Fecit potentiam

Fecit potentiam in brachio suo,
dispersit superbos mente cordis sui.

He hath shewed might in his arm:
He hath scattered the proud in the conceit of the heart.

VIII. Deposuit potentiam

Deposuit potentes de sede,
et exaltavit humiles.

He hath put down the mighty from their seat,
and hath exalted the humble.

IX. Esurientes implevit bonis

Esurientes implevit bonis, et divites dimisit inanes.

He hath filled the hungry with good things, and the rich he hath sent empty away.

X. Suscepit Israel

Suscepit Israel puerum suum
recordatus misericordiae suae.

He hath received Israel his servant,
being mindful of his mercy

XI. Sicut locutus est

Sicut locutus est ad patres nostros,
Abraham et semini eius in saecula.

He spoke to our fathers:
To Abraham and to his seed forever.