New Voices in the Choral World
Who decides what tomorrow’s choral music will sound like? Young composers have a major influence on the survival and renewal of the music world. Through their work, they breathe new life into centuries-old traditions. They win awards, experiment with lyrics and traditions, and compose music that sounds just as good in a cathedral as it does in a modern concert hall. Here, Cappella Amsterdam spotlights five promising young composers you should definitely keep an eye on. You heard it here first!
1. Cecilia McDowall
In recent years, British composer Cecilia McDowall has become one of the most beloved contemporary choral composers. Her works, ranging from understated motets to grand pieces such as the Da Vinci Requiem and Night Flight, are performed worldwide by choirs such as the BBC Singers and The Sixteen. McDowall has a unique way of blending centuries-old texts with a modern, expressive musical language that moves both singers and listeners time and time again.
2. Kerensa Briggs
Kerensa Briggs is a promising British composer who has already won several awards, including the National Center for Early Music Young Composers Award. Her works have been performed by the BBC Singers and Voces8, and she served as composer-in-residence with the Saint Louis Chamber Chorus. Briggs’ style combines the English choral tradition with contemporary harmonies: accessible, yet with a surprising depth.
3. Jacob Mühlrad
Jacob Mühlrad of Sweden is one of the most notable young voices in contemporary choral music. His Jewish background plays a major role in his work, which often explores spiritual themes. Works such as Anim Zemirot and Kaddish translating centuries-old traditions into a fresh, contemporary musical language. Mühlrad’s works are now performed by leading ensembles, from the Swedish Radio Choir to the BBC Singers, and he is regarded internationally as a composer to watch.
4. Emily Hazrati
The young British-Iranian composer Emily Hazrati was one of the featured talents on the National Youth Choir (UK)’s CD “Young Composers 5.” Her music is deeply rooted in vocal expression and explores themes such as identity and community. Hazrati’s fresh and experimental style makes her a name to watch.
5. Maurick Reuser
Dutch composer Maurick Reuser has won prizes at the Princess Christina Competition and writes works that have already been performed by various ensembles. His style is melodious yet surprising, with a keen sensitivity to lyrics and timbre. Reuser proves that in the Netherlands, too, a new generation of choral composers is ready to carry on the tradition and bring it into the modern era.
Read more: Salve Regina (2023)
