New CD illuminates classic choral music

Having performed together for 28 years, the group called The Sixteen is recognized as one of the world's greatest vocal ensembles. Its special reputation for performing early English works, masterpieces of the Renaissance and a diversity of 20th-century music is founded on the passions of conductor and founder Harry Christophers. Originally the choir consisted of 16 singers performing 16th-century music.

As the repertoire expanded, so did the ensemble. For the past ten years it's performed with 18 singers; however, this new recording features the ensemble in its original, 16-member configuration. On this latest release, "Into the Light," The Sixteen are joined by classical guitarist Kaori Muraji, an award-winning performer from Japan. By their own account, these musicians were thrilled to make this recording together. Their combined enthusiasm generates moving music that spans the great European choral tradition. Add to that the gentle simplicity of the classical guitar and you have a unique choral album that lives up to its title; it transports you "Into the Light," to an inspirational place that opens a window beyond the mundane.

Bob Chilcott, formerly of the King's Singers, arranged several works specifically for this recording. One of my favorites is an abbreviated version of the famous Pachelbel Canon. Chilcott turns this familiar instrumental piece into a prayer for the dead by adding text from a poem by Oscar Wilde, titled "Requiescat." Kaori Muraji's delicate guitar accompaniment guides The Sixteen through this heartfelt prayer.

"God Grant we Grace" is a blessing from a hymn by 16th-century English church composer Thomas Tallis. The mixed voices of The Sixteen blend beautifully in this touching canon. Harry Christophers conducts a slow, yet sweeping tempo. Once again, he lifts the listener "Into the Light" to a mystical place beyond this world.

With only 16 voices in the ensemble, each singer must also be a strong soloist. Soprano Libby Crabtree is one member of the chorus who shines throughout "Into the Light." She's featured on two works by Tomas Luis de Victoria, a Spanish composer of the late Renaissance. In part one of Victoria's "Alma Redemptoris Mater," Crabtree's pure, crystalline voice is gently buoyed by Kaori Muraji's guitar accompaniment. It's a beautiful introduction to part two, which features the full choral ensemble. The Sixteen sing this blessing with such an effective dynamic range and deep emotion that it's tempting to hit the "repeat" button and listen to it over and over again.

Crabtree and alto Frances Bourne trade off on a musical call and response at the opening of a high-energy piece titled "A negrito de cucurumbe" by 16th-century Portuguese composer Gaspar Fernandes. The added percussion instruments accentuate the medieval flavor. In the hands of Harry Christophers and The Sixteen, this is a joyous party piece.

The artwork on the cover of "Into the Light" features a dark room with a window half open. Looking through the window, you can see a bit of tropical paradise. When you listen to this new collection of sacred and secular choral music you might feel as if you've stumbled onto a bit of paradise. Harry Christophers and The Sixteen, along with guitarist Kaori Muraji, come together to form a beacon, illuminating our ears with meaningful music shared through unique arrangements in top-notch performances.

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