Ex. 5-1: Et Exultavit

From Bach's Magnificat in D major (BWV 243). The first version was likely composed for 2 July 1723 — Bach's first feast day after leaving his court position to become Thomaskantor in Leipzig. A revised version in D major followed around 1733; the key was changed to suit the natural trumpets, which were usually tuned in D in Saxony. The first version also included four extra pieces for Christmas; Bach removed them in the revised version so it could be used on other feast days.

"Et exultavit spiritus meus in Deo salutari meo" (And my spirit has rejoiced in God my Savior) is the second movement, a soprano aria. The words come from the Bible — part of Mary's song of praise in the Gospel of Luke. The opening movement sings "Magnificat anima mea" (my soul); this movement continues with "spiritus meus" (my spirit). It continues the joyful mood of the opening chorus, but in a gentler, less showy way. Unlike the brilliant opening with its trumpets and drums, this aria is accompanied only by strings and continuo.

From the album J. S. Bach: Magnificat – Handel: Dixit Dominus by soprano Stéphanie Trouillon with Vox Luminis and Lionel Meunier (2017)
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