On the Annunciation of the Blessed Virgin is MacMillan's setting of a wonderfully colourful poem by Jeremy Taylor (1613-1667). Written in a simple and evocative fashion, it is easily performable by most mixed choirs. The organ part is less demanding than many of MacMillan’s other works. A highly effective and approachable anthem, it is equally appropriate for liturgical use at the Feast of the Annunciation or more generally for concert performance.