List of English settings of Magnificats and Nunc dimittis
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There are many English settings of Magnificats and Nunc dimittis, both "classic" and notable, as well as contemporary ones that are lesser known.[1]
Evensong is unusual in several ways:
The service of Evensong is one of few within the church that continues to attract new congregations and maintains an almost 'cult' following. At the mid-point between active day and restful night, Evensong gives listeners time for contemplation and continues to inspire some of the greatest church music ever written. ... Either side of the service's New Testament readings are the evening canticles, the core repertoire of the Evensong - Magnificat and Nunc Dimittis. One, the Magnificat, is a song of a young woman, Mary, rejoicing at the prospect of her child's birth. The ensuing Nunc Dimittis is the voice of an old man named Simeon, reflecting on meeting Jesus and accepting his own death. Composers have set these two texts for centuries, but the 20th century produced some of the most important settings we know and hear today. Alongside these well-known canticles, many exist that haven't yet entered into the standard repertory, either due to being written so recently, or due to their composer's gender, race or faith tradition.
— Hattie Butterworth, for Gramophone[1]
