Handel Dixit Dominus and Bach Magnificat : Oxford Pro Musica Singers

In the suitably baroque splendour of the Sheldonian Theatre, Oxford Pro Musica Singers is delighted to present two colossi of the baroque repertoire: Bach’s Magnificat and Handel’s Dixit Dominus.

Bach’s 1723 setting of Mary’s canticle of praise and thanksgiving is especially lavish and celebratory, featuring an extended choir of five voices, five soloists and liberal use of trumpets and drums. Despite its obvious exuberance, however, Bach is sensitive to the quieter accents of the text, and it also features beautifully tender moments of word-painting enhanced by his skilled use of flutes and oboes. This grand work deploys a multicoloured musical palette that cannot fail to move and excite the listener.

We pair this work with Handel’s sparkling 1707 setting of Psalm 110, one of the ‘royal psalms’, which he delivers with his customary melodiousness, rhythmic energy and textural variation. This vivacious work was written during Handel's time in Rome, and 35 years before Messiah (1742)! It shows off all his youthful brilliance!

We are delighted to join forces once again with Oxford’s professional period ensemble, , in this scintillating programme that will doubtless illuminate an October evening. Do come and join us!

Category : Music : Classical Music

Please note that tickets are unreserved and are in the upper gallery. For a seating plan please see the choir website : https://opms.org.uk/event/bach-handel/

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