New Heaven: Harry Christophers and The Sixteen Choral conversations with Sara Mohr-Pietsch

The Sixteen are a renowned a cappella choir known for their performances at cathedrals and festivals worldwide. Harry Christophers, their director, has created a successful business model with a record label and tours, combining popular appeal with expert approval. This book is for anyone interested in classical music, singing, or the human voice.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 224 pages
Publication date: 07 October 2021
Publisher: Faber & Faber

The Sixteen, a renowned ensemble, have achieved widespread recognition as the Voices of Classic FM and stars of the BBC Four series Sacred Music, presented by Simon Russell Beale. Since the turn of the millennium, they have embarked on an annual Choral Pilgrimage, presenting a program of a cappella vocal music to approximately thirty cathedrals across the country. Their prolific recording career spans several decades, and they have performed at prestigious festivals and venues worldwide.

Harry Christophers, the visionary behind The Sixteen, stands as a unique figure in the world of music. Through his leadership, Christophers has cultivated a choir of exceptional caliber, establishing a successful business model that encompasses a record label, extensive tours to capacity audiences, a diverse repertoire, and a remarkable fusion of immense popular appeal and the endorsement of esteemed experts. This book, designed to be accessible to individuals of all musical backgrounds and levels of expertise, will captivate anyone with an interest in classical music, amateur or professional singers, and enthusiasts of the captivating sound of the human voice.

The Sixteen's journey begins with their formation in 1985 under the direction of Harry Christophers. Initially, the ensemble consisted of sixteen young singers who met regularly for rehearsals and performances. Over the years, their reputation grew, and they were invited to perform at prestigious events and festivals. Their commitment to excellence and their unique approach to choral music set them apart.

One of the key aspects of The Sixteen's success is their commitment to nurturing young talent. They have established a training program that attracts talented singers from all over the world. The program provides a comprehensive education in vocal technique, music theory, and choral performance, allowing young singers to develop their skills and reach their full potential. Many of the members of The Sixteen have gone on to have successful careers as solo singers, choral conductors, and music educators.

Another hallmark of The Sixteen's success is their innovative approach to repertoire selection. They have a vast collection of choral music, ranging from the medieval era to the present day. Their performances showcase a diverse range of styles, from the intricate polyphony of the Renaissance to the contemporary compositions of today's composers. This commitment to exploring a wide range of repertoire has allowed The Sixteen to appeal to a broad audience and has contributed to their continued popularity.

In addition to their performances, The Sixteen are also prolific recording artists. Their recordings have received critical acclaim and have been widely distributed throughout the world. Their albums have been praised for their clarity, precision, and emotional depth, and have helped to establish them as one of the leading ensembles in the field of classical music.

One of the most remarkable aspects of The Sixteen is their ability to combine enormous popular appeal with the stamp of approval from experts in the field. They have received numerous awards and accolades, including the Gramophone Award for Best Choral Recording and the Royal Philharmonic Society Music Award for Best Classical Vocal Soloist. These awards recognize their exceptional talent and dedication to the art of choral music.

The Sixteen's impact on the world of classical music extends beyond their performances and recordings. They have been instrumental in promoting choral music and raising its profile. They have collaborated with other musicians and ensembles, including the London Symphony Orchestra and the Royal Opera House, and have played a significant role in the development of choral music education.

In conclusion, The Sixteen is a remarkable ensemble that has achieved widespread recognition as the Voices of Classic FM and stars of the BBC Four series Sacred Music. Through their commitment to excellence, innovative approach to repertoire selection, and nurturing of young talent, they have established themselves as a leading force in the world of classical music. Harry Christophers's visionary leadership has contributed to their success, and their impact on the field of choral music is immeasurable. This book, designed to be accessible to individuals of all musical backgrounds and levels of expertise, provides a comprehensive exploration of The Sixteen's journey, their achievements, and their lasting legacy. Whether you are a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a newcomer to the world of choral music, this book will captivate your senses and inspire your appreciation for the power of the human voice.

Weight: 188g
Dimension: 128 x 197 x 18 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780571348534
Edition number: Main