Magnificat

Marc-Antoine Charpentier was appointed as music master of the Saint-Chapelle in 1698. Founded in the 13th century by Louis IX (Saint Louis) as a sanctuary for the crown of thorns, which he had purchased at great expense from the Latin emperor of Constantinople Baldwin II, the Sainte-Chappelle enjoyed the special attention of the kings of France. Described by a 14th century theologian as “one of the most beautiful abodes in paradise” the Sainte-Chapelle was also an important center for music, and Charpentier’s position as music master was second in prestige only to the Surintendant at the Chapelle Royale. The Sainte-Chapelle was situated in the heart of a walled enclosure of what was formerly the palace of the king and, during Charpentier’s tenure, the Parlement. The reconvening of the Parlement, which took place annually on November 12, the day after the Feats of St. Martin, was commemorated by the celebration of a ...