Description

Johann Sebastian Bach’s setting of the “Magnificat”, the Canticle of Mary, is undoubtedly one of the highlights of his oeuvre and holds a firm place in Christmas season concert programs.

Originally composed in E-flat major in 1723, the “Magnificat” was later revised and reached its final form in 1732. In this better-known version, now in D major, the inclusion of transverse flutes enriches the overall sound of the winds. The renowned Bach scholar Alfred Dürr set new standards with his edition of the work.

The piano reduction, based on the Urtext of the New Bach Edition, is easily playable and presented in a clear, modern layout. The appendix includes the four interpolated movements from the original version, transposed into the main key. Their intended positions within the work are clearly marked by cross-references.