The King’s Singers celebrate their ‘Gold’ anniversary with two concerts at BYU
Performance Dates and Times: Nov. 16-17, 7:30 p.m.
Location: de Jong Concert Hall, Harris Fine Arts Center, BYU
Price: $22+
Tickets: Available in person at the BYU Ticket Office in the Harris Fine Arts Center or Marriott Center, by phone at 801-422-2981 or at byuarts.com.
It is no secret that BYU and The King’s Singers have a great relationship. In fact, besides the Utah Symphony, The King’s Singers have performed at BYU more than any other guest artist in BRAVO! Professional Performing Arts history.
It seems only fitting that The King’s Singers include BYU in their 50th birthday celebrations by performing on campus in November.
“Over the years, the King’s Singers have performed alongside our students, conducted master classes and delighted our audiences,” BRAVO! Producer Bridget Benton said. “Our long-standing relationship has been invaluable.”
In addition to their close ties to BYU, The King’s Singers have made their way into the hearts of many Utahns. They have sung several times with the Mormon Tabernacle Choir and other Utah performing groups throughout the years.
Last year, The King’s Singers performed with the Mormon Tabernacle Choir in their annual Pioneer Day Concert. The concerts were the last U.S. performance for countertenor David Hurley and the choir gave him an affectionate send-off. Hurley retired in August 2016 after 26 years with the ensemble. Countertenor Patrick Dunachie joined the group in September 2016 and will perform at BYU with The King’s Singers for the first time.
In conjunction with the 50th anniversary tour, titled “Gold,” The King’s Singers released a new book chronicling the ensemble’s history as well as a three-disc album of the same name. Their concert at BYU features songs from their album, including four songs that were specifically commissioned for the anniversary performances.
“We are delighted to welcome The King’s Singers back to BYU, and thrilled to be part of this historic season,” Benton said.
The King’s Singers were formed in 1968 by six choral scholars who graduated from King’s College, Cambridge. Since then, the group has built a legacy of world-renowned choral performances. Though the group rotates through singers, they have maintained their high-caliber technique and blend.
The ensemble has received two Grammy Awards, an Emmy Award and were inducted into Gramophone magazine’s Hall of Fame. The King’s Singers strive to “radiate the joy singing brings every day” and invite audiences to “come and join us for the ride” as they celebrate their 50th year.
Writer: Rebecca Sumsion
