Whether performing a simple medieval hymn or expressing the complex musical and emotional language of a contemporary choral composition, British choir The Sixteen and conductor Harry Christophers do so with tonal warmth, rhythmic precision, and immaculate intonation.
The Sixteen makes its UGA Presents debut Oct. 22 at 7:30 p.m. at Hodgson Concert Hall. The program, The Deer’s Cry, blends music by English Renaissance composers William Byrd and Thomas Tallis with pieces by modern Estonian minimalist composer Arvo Pärt.
“This is a choir I’ve been eager for Athens audiences to hear for a long time,” said UGA Performing Arts Center Director Jeffrey Martin, whose enthusiasm for the group helped foster its first U.S. tour in nearly 20 years. “It’s truly one of the very best, which is saying a lot because the U.K. is overflowing with outstanding choral ensembles.”
In partnership with The Sixteen, Christophers has set benchmark standards for the performance of everything from late medieval polyphony to important new works by contemporary composers. Under his leadership The Sixteen has established its hugely successful annual Choral Pilgrimage, created the Sacred Music series for BBC television, and developed an acclaimed period-instrument orchestra.
Highlights of their recent work include an artist residency at Wigmore Hall, a large-scale tour of Monteverdi’s Vespers of 1610, the world premiere of James MacMillan’s Fifth Symphony at the 2019 Edinburgh International Festival and a live-streamed performance of MacMillan’s “Stabat mater” from the Sistine Chapel.
Join the audience for a pre-performance talk by Theresa Chafin in Ramsey Concert Hall from 6:45-7:15 p.m.
This performance is supported by Betsy and Blair Dorminey.
Three ways to get tickets
- Purchase tickets online at pac.uga.edu.
- Call the Performing Arts Center box office at 706-542-4400, Monday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
- Visit the UGA Performing Arts Center box office, Monday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. (five-minute parking is available in the drop off circle at the Performing Arts Center for purchasing or picking up tickets.)
To learn more about all UGA Performing Arts Center events, visit pac.uga.edu.