Vocal Ensembles: The Lion and the Eagle

Directed by Stile Antico

About the course

Join Stile Antico to explore the rich musical relationship between England and Spain in the sixteenth and early seventeenth centuries. Inspired by the ensemble’s programme The Lion and the Eagle, the course brings a turbulent age of royal marriages, religious change and political rivalry to life through Renaissance polyphony. Music by Tallis, Byrd, Morales, Guerrero and their contemporaries reveals the extraordinary musical achievements of both countries. Singers will discover the particular rewards of singing this repertoire in smaller vocal groups, where listening and musical collaboration are central.

Who is it for?

This Open Access course welcomes singers with a wide range of experience. Participants will be grouped according to their confidence and experience, with opportunities to sing one to a part, a couple to a part or with greater support. On booking, singers will be asked about their sight-reading confidence and preferred group size. No audition is required.

What to expect

Members of Stile Antico will guide vocal ensembles through the challenges and pleasures of Renaissance part-singing, exploring tuning, blend, balance, phrasing and the relationship between words and music. Groups will be arranged to suit participants’ experience, allowing everyone to develop their skills in a supportive setting. The course will also explore the historical stories behind the music and will conclude with informal performances on the final day.

Practical information