Divine inspiration and imitation: The Sixteen presents its programming for the 45th anniversary of the ensemble’s founding
Concerts
In 2024, The Sixteen will mark the 45th anniversary of its founding and the 70th birthday of its founder, Harry Christophers, in a season that draws on music shaped through parody and imitation. From the parodies of Josquin Desprez by Orlande de Lassus, to Bach’s self-inspiration, to James MacMillan’s tribute to Robert Carver, this programming reflects the wide-ranging inventiveness of composers from the Renaissance to the contemporary. In addition, The Sixteen celebrates new works by Bob Chilcott and Cecilia McDowall, new discoveries including works by Maddalena Casulana, as well as a return to beloved interpretations of Duruflé’s Requiem and Monteverdi’s Vespers of 1610.
Looking ahead to their 2024 programming, founder and director of The Sixteen Harry Christophers, said:
‘This season stands as a testament to the enduring creativity of composers across eras, spanning from the Renaissance to contemporary times. It is also a heartfelt tribute to our ensemble as we celebrate 45 years of making music together. I extend a warm invitation to audiences to join us for this celebratory season, featuring new compositions by Bob Chilcott and Cecilia McDowall, rediscoveries of Maddalena Casulana, and the timeless resonance of Duruflé and Monteverdi.’
Browse the 2024 Concert Season
Choral workshops
The Sixteen’s Choral Pilgrimage Choral Workshops are a rewarding opportunity for keen amateur singers to explore a variety of music inspired by The Sixteen’s own performances. Under the guidance of expert workshop leaders, these sessions include advice on vocal technique, as well as performance interpretation and historical context.
This season, amateur singers in Oxford, Croydon, Edinburgh, Tewkesbury and Blackburn will be able to practice breathing technique, invigorating warm-ups and voice production in a nurturing and enjoyable environment.
Learning, Participation and Education
In 2024, The Sixteen is set to reach over 4000 participants through its Learning and Participation Programme.
The programme will include Residencies in four locations in England (County Durham, Peterborough, Medway and Blackburn with Darwen) which will engage children aged 5-18, older people at risk of isolation, refugees, care home residents, and those affected by homelessness.
A further 600 singers aged 11-18 years old will have the opportunity to take part in twelve Singing Workshops and five Chorister Workshops led by expert vocal practitioners in partnership with Music Hubs, Secondary Schools, Youth Choirs and Cathedrals.
Following a successful pilot in 2023, The Sixteen will launch a new programme offering young singers the opportunity to develop their skills and discover pathways into the choral and classical industries. This project forms part of The Sixteen’s commitment to broadening access to classical music to reflect our present-day society.
Aiming to nurture the next generation of Choral practitioners, much of the Learning and Participation programme will be supported and delivered by alumni of the Genesis Sixteen Young Artist programme.
Genesis Sixteen
Recruitment for the 2024 – 25 cohort of Genesis Sixteen is now open. Prospective applicants to join The Sixteen’s free young artists programme should apply by Friday 26 January 2024.
Applications for Genesis Sixteen Conducting Scholar will open in May.