Genre

:

Choral

 

Grex Vocalis is a Norwegian classical music ensemble that specializes in vocal music. The ensemble was founded in 1971 by Carl Høgset, who remains its artistic director to this day. Over the years, Grex Vocalis has become one of Norway's most respected and beloved classical music ensembles, known for its impeccable musicianship and innovative programming. The ensemble's name, Grex Vocalis, means "vocal group" in Latin. From the beginning, the ensemble's focus has been on vocal music, particularly choral music. However, Grex Vocalis is not a traditional choir. Instead, it is a small ensemble of professional singers who perform a wide range of vocal music, from medieval chants to contemporary works. Grex Vocalis has had many members over the years, but some of its most notable members include Carl Høgset, who founded the ensemble and has been its artistic director for over 50 years; Anne-Lise Berntsen, who has been a member of the ensemble since 1975 and is known for her beautiful soprano voice; and Nils Økland, a talented violinist who has been a member of the ensemble since 1990. Over the years, Grex Vocalis has performed at many of Norway's most prestigious concert halls and festivals, as well as at venues around the world. Some of the ensemble's most notable performances include its 1991 performance of Bach's St. Matthew Passion at the Oslo Cathedral, which was broadcast on national television and received widespread critical acclaim; its 1995 performance of Arvo Pärt's Passio at the Bergen International Festival, which was also broadcast on national television and won the ensemble the prestigious Spellemannprisen award; and its 2001 performance of Handel's Messiah at the Oslo Concert Hall, which was hailed as a triumph by critics and audiences alike. In addition to its many performances, Grex Vocalis has also released numerous recordings over the years. Some of the ensemble's most notable recordings include its 1989 recording of Bach's Mass in B Minor, which was praised for its clarity and precision; its 1995 recording of Pärt's Passio, which won the Spellemannprisen award and was hailed as a masterpiece of contemporary choral music; and its 2003 recording of Brahms' Ein deutsches Requiem, which was praised for its emotional depth and musicality. Throughout its long and illustrious history, Grex Vocalis has received many awards and honors for its contributions to the world of classical music. In addition to the Spellemannprisen award, the ensemble has also been awarded the prestigious Edvard Grieg Prize, the Norwegian Music Critics' Award, and the St. Olav's Medal, among others. Today, Grex Vocalis remains one of Norway's most beloved and respected classical music ensembles. With its impeccable musicianship, innovative programming, and commitment to excellence, the ensemble continues to inspire and delight audiences around the world.

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