Details

The Sixteen is a musical treasure. The richness, beauty and expressivity of the virtuoso choir has earned it a global following in the four decades since it was founded by conductor Harry Christophers.

Whether performing Renaissance masterpieces or works composed especially for the ensemble, its members sing with power, precision and passion.

The Sixteen explores the immortal legacy of Tudor composers Thomas Tallis and William Byrd – Catholic at a time when Catholics were persecuted. That they composed some of the most exquisite sacred music of the 16th century, often performed in secret, is testament to the power of their creativity and faith.

The a cappella tradition forged by Tallis and his contemporaries lives in the vivid and moving music of Britten, Tippett and James MacMilllan. The warmth and clarity of The Sixteen’s voices are a sublime match for Elisabeth Murdoch Hall.

Join us for a post-concert talk in the ground floor foyer following the performance.

Presented by Melbourne Recital Centre

PROGRAM

Thomas Tallis
Tunes for Archbishop Parker’s Psalter
Salvator mundi

Thomas Morley
April is in my mistress’ face

Orlando Gibbons
The Silver Swan

William Byrd
This Sweet and Merry Month of May, T 317

James MacMillan
Sedebit Dominum Rex

John Sheppard
In manus tuas III

Michael Tippet
Five Negro Spirituals from ‘A Child of Our Time’

Thomas Tallis
O nata lux
O sacrum convivium
Loquebantur variis linguis

James MacMillan
Mitte manum tuam

William Byrd
Laudibus in sanctis

Benjamin Britten
Choral Dances from Gloriana