Evening Service for Saint Mark's School

Joel Martinson's setting of the evening canticles balances a rare sensitivity to the text with an exuberant use of voices and organ. The "Magnificat" opens with sopranos alone supported by a gently undulating accompaniment. The flow of the text is sustained throughout by the use of mixed meters. "He hath shown strength with his arm", is set in a rapid, syncopated style which returns for the "Glory be to the Father" section. The "Nunc Dimittis" begins lyrically and quietly in all parts and gradually builds to a strong conclusion as the harmony and texture increase in intensity. Mr. Martinson's combination of rhythmic drive and sensitively changing harmonies create a fresh and vital setting of these beloved words for the service of Evensong.