Country

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United States of America

Genre

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Choral

 

Gloriae Dei Cantores is a classical music ensemble that was founded in 1988 by Elizabeth C. Patterson. The ensemble is based in Orleans, Massachusetts, and is made up of 40 singers who are dedicated to the performance of sacred music. The group has become known for its beautiful and moving performances of choral music from a variety of different traditions. The founding of Gloriae Dei Cantores was inspired by Elizabeth Patterson's love of sacred music and her desire to share that love with others. She had previously founded the Community of Jesus, a Christian community in Orleans, and saw the creation of the ensemble as a way to further the community's mission of spreading the gospel through the arts. The group's name, which means "Singers to the Glory of God," reflects this mission. The ensemble's main members are its singers, who come from a variety of different backgrounds and have a wide range of musical experience. Many of the singers are members of the Community of Jesus, but others come from outside the community. The group is led by its artistic director, Richard K. Pugsley, who has been with the ensemble since its founding. Pugsley is a highly respected choral conductor and has worked with a number of other ensembles throughout his career. Over the years, Gloriae Dei Cantores has become known for its beautiful and moving performances of sacred music from a variety of different traditions. The group has performed works by composers such as Bach, Handel, Mozart, and Brahms, as well as more contemporary composers like Arvo Pärt and John Tavener. The ensemble has also performed a number of world premieres, including works by James MacMillan and John Rutter. One of the highlights of Gloriae Dei Cantores' career was its performance at the Vatican in 1993. The group was invited to perform for Pope John Paul II as part of a celebration of the 500th anniversary of the birth of St. Teresa of Avila. The performance was a great success, and the group received a standing ovation from the pope and the audience. Another notable performance by the ensemble was its appearance at the Edinburgh International Festival in 2000. The group performed a program of sacred music that included works by Bach, Handel, and Mozart. The performance was highly praised by critics and helped to raise the group's profile on the international stage. In addition to its performances, Gloriae Dei Cantores has also received a number of awards and honors over the years. In 1997, the group was awarded the prestigious Edison Award for its recording of the Requiem by Maurice Duruflé. The group has also been nominated for several Grammy Awards, including Best Choral Performance and Best Classical Album. Overall, Gloriae Dei Cantores is a highly respected and accomplished ensemble that has made a significant contribution to the world of sacred music. The group's dedication to the performance of this music, as well as its commitment to spreading the gospel through the arts, has made it a beloved and respected institution in the world of classical music.

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