What makes singing and performing so interesting for both choir members and our audiences is the contrasting range, styles and genres of our music.
Our Musical Director, Chris Hann puts together, teaches and conducts the repertoire which the choir then learn to perfection. The repertoire is regularly updated with new pieces and other pieces dropped over time. This keeps our repertoire fresh and exciting to listen to.
Composed by Kerensa BriggsCommissioned in 2015 by the English vocal ensemble, Siglo de Oro to celebrate the 500th anniversary of John Sheppard's birthKarensa Briggs is an award winning composer bassed in London Some wonderful harmonics to be enjoyed to the full in this piece where 'In the midst of life, we are in death' More information about the composer https://www.kerensabriggs.co.uk/ | |
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Composed by Kim André ArnesenFrom a text scratched on a wall of a WW11 concentration campPremiered in 2011, at Nidaros Cathedral, Trondheim. An intensely moving piece by the contemporary Norweigian choral composer Kim André Arnesen, 'Even When He is Silent' captures the ray of hope in the darkest of times. | |
For more information, see: | https://www.kimarnesen.com/even-when-he-is-silent |
Composed by Elaine HagenbergLyrics from a poem by Sara TeasdalePublished in 2017 Reading Phoenix Choir continues to champion compositions from female composers with this beautiful piece that conjures images of "stars shining, rooftops covered with snow, crystal peace finding the 'music of stillness'. | |
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For more information, see: | https://www.elainehagenberg.com/the-music-of-stillness-satb |
Composed by John RutterWords by Lancelot Andrewes (1555 - 1626)Published in 1993
Written for double-choir, the piece is decidely not the usual melody and harmony one might normally associated with Rutter. Instead we have a mysterious almost dissonant introduction which explodes into a glorious 'fire of flame'. The second section introduces an energetic 'Glory be to thee' followed by a tranquil setting for the Creator of the visible light'. | |
For more information, see: | johnrutter.com/music/printed-music/catalogue/hymn-to-the-creator-of-light |
Composed by Cecilia McDowallAn ethereal and evocative setting of one of the seven Advent O Antiphons. First performed by the Choir of Merton College Chapel, Oxford on 4 May 2012, conducted by Benjamin Nicholas Facebook Video | |
For more information, see: | ceciliamcdowall.co.uk/biography/ |