Zielinski, RichardButhod, Olivia2015-05-042015-05-042015http://hdl.handle.net/11244/14558The purpose of this document is to identify the most efficient way to benefit choir directors in the preparation of a performance of Leo Cornelius Nestor’s Magnificat. The document is organized in six chapters as follows: an introduction with a survey of related literature and methodology, a brief history of the Magnificat and its role in liturgies, a biographical background of Leo Nestor and his compositional style, the context of the commission and premiere of Nestor’s Magnificat, a look into the formal and tonal aspect of this piece, and a pedagogical approach of the Magnificat to be used as a guideline for preparation. A choral director would be well advised to become familiar with the rich history and tradition of the Magnificat in the church and in sacred music, where strong understanding and interpretation of the text through music are crucial. It is necessary for the director to have completed a formal and tonal analysis of Nestor’s setting. To prepare a performance also requires a strict and concise rehearsal plan, including formulating a rehearsal grid, incorporating efficient choral warm-ups based on motives and ideas from the Magnificat, arranging sectionals if needed, and gaining knowledge of the instrumental ensemble needed for the piece. Correspondence with the composer during the research of this treatment contributes insight into the craft and mind of his composition process. Clear understanding of the subtleties and nuances of this setting of the Magnificat will help produce a meaningful execution of his work. Standing as a resource for choir directors, the techniques laid out in this document will serve as a pedagogical tool for the preparation of Leo Nestor’s Magnificat, which in turn would be transferrable to other sacred works of this style.Nestor, LeoMagnificatPedagogyChoral ConductingVespers