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Commissions

Despite their fame as interpreters of renaissance polyphony, The Tallis Scholars are increasingly keen commissioners of new repertoire. Composers are eager to write for the group’s unique sound and The Tallis Scholars are particularly interested in composers who highlight the many tone palettes they offer, or utilise traditional texts in new settings. Past commissions include Sir John Tavener’s Tribute to Cavafy (24 voices, narrator, percussion and soloist) and In the Month of Athyr; Walker’s I have thee by the hand, O Man; Errollyn Wallen’s When the wet wind sings; and Ivan Moody’s The Adoration of the Lamb.

The Tallis Scholars also perform works by other contemporary composers such as Arvo Pärt and Gabriel Jackson, recent concerts of both provoking rave reviews. The group also support young composers and you can read more about the NCEM Young Composer Award 2012 here too; an idea generated by The Tallis Scholars to encourage young people to write polyphony.

The Tallis Scholars are commissioning two new pieces to celebrate their 40th anniversary in 2013. One by ‘of the moment’ composer Eric Whitacre which will be setting of a Virgil text and the other by Gabriel Jackson who will write an Ave dei Patris.

Many territory premières are available and if you are interested in investigating whether you can host a première in your country, particularly of the 40th anniversary works, please contact us.