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The University of Maine School of Performing Arts presented “Franz Liszt” on Saturday, Nov. 19 in Minsky Hall.
The concert celebrated the bicentennial of the birth of renowned 19th century pianist Franz Liszt. The Maine Oratorio Society and UMaine Orchestra performed. Eighty-seven members, young and old, faculty and student, make up the Oratorio Society.
The groups performed “Magnificat in D Major, BWV 243,” a major vocal work by Johann Sebastian Bach, composed for an orchestra and five-part choir with soloists throughout the work. The text represents the canticle of Mary, the mother of Jesus, according to the Evangelist, Luke. Ludlow Hallman, a faculty member of the School of Performing Arts, was the featured conductor.
“Magnificat,” Latin for “magnify,” is divided into 12 parts and lasts about 30 minutes. This is the oldest Marian hymn and is derived from the Latin version of the canticle’s text. The Virgin Mary visits her cousin, Elizabeth, when they learn Elizabeth is with child — John the Baptist. This chorus is a song of praise Mary gives God for her own personal blessing.
It is divided into 12 major parts. The first four songs express Mary’s exaltation and gratitude to God: “Magnificat,” “Et exultavit spiritus meus,” “Quia respexit” and “Omnes generations.” This translates to “My soul doth magnify the Lord and my spirit hath rejoiced in God my Savior. For he hath regarded the lowliness of his handmaiden: For, behold, from henceforth all generations shall call me blessed.”
Sopranos Diana Rhys and Hannah Batley were the first section’s featured soloists.
The next section is a praise of the character and gracious disposition of God to all those who give Him reverence. This part is made up of “Quia fecit mihi magna” and “Et misericordia,” translating to “For he that is mighty hath magnified me: and holy is His name. And his mercy is on them that fear him: throughout all generations.”
Bass Joshua Trombley, mezzo-soprano Joan Kroehler and tenor Dustin Batley were the soloists.
In the third part, a proclamation of God’s sovereignty and unique love for the lowly, is sung by Mary. This included “Fecit potentiam” and “Deposuit potentes,” which translates to “He hath showed strength with his arm: he hath scattered the proud in the imagination of their hearts. He hath put down the might from their seat: and hath exalted the humble and meek.”
Tenor John Grover was featured in this section.
The last part of “Magnificat” speaks of God’s mercy to Israel. This included “Esurientes implevit bonis,” “Suscepit Israel,” “Sicut locutus est” and “Gloria patri.” This final section translates to “He hath filled the hungry with good things: and the rich he hath sent empty away.
He remembering his mercy hath holpen his servant Israel. As he promised to our forefathers, Abraham and his seed forever. Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Ghost. As it was in the beginning, is now and ever shall be. World without end, Amen.”
Soprano Hannah Batley and mezzo-sopranos Diana Rhys, Emily Colwell and Amber Simmons were the last featured soloists.
After intermission, the chorus performed their grand finale, “Psalm XIII, S. 13/2” by Liszt. Tenor soloist Frances Vogt was featured.
Upcoming events in Minsky Hall include a performance by the UMaine Percussion Ensemble on Tuesday at 7:30 p.m.; a Brass Night on Tuesday, Nov. 29 at 7:30 p.m.; and a performance by the Guitar Ensemble on Wednesday, Nov. 30 at 7:30 p.m.
Bangor Daily News