After 32 years of worldwide performance and recording, The Sixteen is recognised as one of the world’s greatest ensembles. Comprising both choir and period-instrument orchestra, The Sixteen’s total commitment to the music it performs is its greatest distinction. A special reputation for performing early English polyphony, masterpieces of the Renaissance, bringing fresh insights into Baroque and early Classical music and a diversity of 20th-century music, is drawn from the passions of conductor and founder Harry Christophers. In 2009 the group was awarded the Classic FM Gramophone “Artist of the Year” award [the only ensemble in the award’s history to ever win this category]. 

Over one hundred recordings reflect The Sixteen’s quality in a range of work spanning the music of five hundred years, winning many awards including Grand Prix du Disque, numerous Schallplattenkritik, the coveted Gramophone Award for “Early Music”, a Classical Brit Award and Classic FM Gramophone Baroque Vocal Award for their recording of Handel’s Coronation Anthems.

Since 2001 The Sixteen has been building its own record label, CORO, which now boasts over 100 titles. Recent recordings include 'The Earth Resounds' featuring music by  Josquin, Brumel and Lassus, the first volume in a new series celebrating Palestrina and the second volume in the Monteverdi Selva morale e spirituale series. Best sellers include Allegri's Miserere, Handel's Messiah and Tallis's Spem in Alium. In 2010 CORO DVD was launched to release the BBC’s groundbreaking Sacred Music programmes on DVD.

For more information on The Sixteen and to purchase CDs visit www.thesixteen.com

The Verismo Consort is an all new choral ensemble made up of eight singers from Genesis Sixteen; the young singers training programme run by The Sixteen and supported by the Genesis Foundation. One of the benefits of the programme is that members are encouraged to set up smaller groups and pursue their own musical endeavours. All the members of Verismo are between 19-24 and are individually becoming well established musicians in London, Oxford, Cambridge and Cardiff. They are all good friends and the idea of making great music together is the prime drive behind setting up this group.

Freelance Alto based in London and Cardiff

Verismo Consort is following