About the composer:

Rob Landes' "Magnificat" offers a contemporary American take on Mary's canticle from Luke 1:46-55. Landes approaches this ancient text with his characteristic blend of traditional choral writing and modern harmonic touches, creating a work that feels both rooted and fresh. The piece alternates between moments of tender introspection—Mary's personal response to the Annunciation—and bold proclamations about God's justice and mercy.

Structurally, Landes divides the text into clear sections that highlight the Magnificat's dual nature as both personal prayer and prophetic declaration. He uses shifting meters and rhythmic complexity to emphasize the revolutionary aspects of the text, particularly in passages about bringing down the powerful and lifting up the lowly. The harmonic language incorporates jazz-influenced chords and unexpected progressions while maintaining enough traditional grounding for church choir performance.

The vocal writing shows Landes' understanding of amateur choir capabilities, with challenging moments balanced by accessible passages that allow singers to recover. His use of dynamic contrast serves the text's emotional arc, moving from quiet awe to triumphant declaration. The accompaniment provides rhythmic drive and harmonic support without overwhelming the voices, using ostinato patterns that create forward momentum while allowing textual clarity.

About the composer:

https://agohouston2016.com/conference/performers/rob-landes

• TBD