William Byrd Singers (Chamber Choir)

Founded: 1970 - Manchester, England

Founded in 1970, the William Byrd Singers are a chamber choir of 8, 6, 6, 8 voices. They have performed widely around the UK, in Italy, Ireland, France, Belgium, Poland, Holland and Finland, and have broadcast and recorded four CD's. Their repertoire extends from the Renaissance to the present day, and includes valuable revivals and commissions. The Byrds and their companion young string ensemble Capriccio are directed by Stephen Wilkinson.

Following their successful tour of Italy in 2002, the Byrds have performed not only in their customary venues in Manchester, but also in other prestigious locations, including Durham and Ripon Cathedrals. 2004-2005 season has seen two concerts in Emmanuel Church, Didsbury, and others at the RNCM, for Prestwich Music Club, for the Bollington Festival, and in St Peter's Church, Hale. The February RNCM concert marked the completion of their cycle of performances of Bach's four Lutheran masses (BWV 233-236). Their next concert is of Romantic music: Schumann, Schubert and Johannes Brahms. Their 2005-2006 season includes Händel's dramatic Dixit Dominus and Domenico Scarlatti's marvellous Stabat Mater for 10 part choir.

Source: William Byrd Singers Website
Contributed by Aryeh Oron (July 2005)

Recordings of Bach Cantatas & Other Vocal Works

Conductor

As

Works

Stephen Wilkinson

Choir

BWV 245 [Excerpts]

Links to other Sites

William Byrd Singers (Official Website)