Country

:

United Kingdom

Genre

:

Choral

 

 

Film

 

 

Vocal

 

The Choir of Westminster Abbey is one of the most renowned and prestigious classical music ensembles in the world. Founded in the 14th century, the choir has a rich history and has been an integral part of the musical and cultural heritage of England. The choir was originally established as part of the Benedictine monastery at Westminster Abbey, which was founded in the 10th century. The monks who lived there were responsible for the daily worship and music of the abbey, and the choir was an essential part of this. Over time, the choir grew in size and reputation, and by the 16th century, it had become one of the most important musical institutions in England. In the 16th century, the choir underwent a major transformation when King Henry VIII dissolved the monasteries and established the Church of England. The choir was reorganized as a group of lay clerks and choristers, and it continued to perform the daily services at Westminster Abbey. Over the centuries, the choir has continued to evolve and adapt to changing musical styles and trends, while maintaining its commitment to excellence and tradition. Today, the Choir of Westminster Abbey is made up of 12 adult singers, known as lay vicars, and 30 boy choristers, who are educated at the Westminster Abbey Choir School. The choir performs at daily services in the abbey, as well as at special events and concerts throughout the year. The choir's repertoire includes a wide range of music, from medieval chants and Renaissance polyphony to contemporary works by living composers. One of the highlights of the choir's calendar is the annual Service of Nine Lessons and Carols, which takes place on Christmas Eve and is broadcast live on BBC Radio. This service, which was first held in 1918, has become a beloved tradition around the world, and millions of people tune in to listen to the choir's beautiful singing and the readings from the Bible. The choir has also performed at many other important events and occasions, including the coronation of Queen Elizabeth II in 1953, the funeral of Princess Diana in 1997, and the wedding of Prince William and Kate Middleton in 2011. The choir has also toured extensively, performing in countries around the world, including the United States, Canada, Australia, and Japan. Over the years, the Choir of Westminster Abbey has received many awards and accolades for its outstanding performances and recordings. In 2012, the choir won a Grammy Award for Best Choral Performance for its recording of "Fauré: Requiem; Bach: Partita, Chorales & Ciaconna." The choir has also been nominated for several other Grammy Awards, as well as for the Classical Brit Awards and the International Classical Music Awards. In addition to its performances and recordings, the Choir of Westminster Abbey is also committed to education and outreach. The choir runs a program called "Singing Abbey," which provides opportunities for young people to learn about and participate in choral music. The choir also works with schools and community groups to promote music education and appreciation. In conclusion, the Choir of Westminster Abbey is a truly remarkable ensemble with a rich history and a commitment to excellence and tradition. Its members, both past and present, have contributed to the musical and cultural heritage of England and the world, and its performances continue to inspire and delight audiences around the globe.

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