Written to celebrate the 450th anniversary of one of choral music’s most iconic works, Thomas Tallis's 40 Part motet, Spem in alium, Sir James MacMillan was commissioned to write a modern reflection to Spem in alium. The piece has been described as a "shattering experience" by Stephen Fry, and composer John Rutter wrote that it is “an extraordinary piece, like a new-born free spirit rising from the body of Tallis's Spem.”

Bel are joining forces with Coro Innominata and other Sydney-based singers to make up the 40 voices required for this epic work.

Bel a cappella's concert also includes repertoire by other contemporary composers, including Sir John Tavener, Australian composer Sarah Elise Thompson, Ola Gjeilo and the Australian premiere of Gabriel Jackson’s Requiem.

Program

• Sir John Tavener: Svyati
• Ola Gjeilo: The Speres
• Sir James MacMillan: Vidi aquam (Australian Premiere)
• Sarah Elise Thompson: Sundance (Sydney Premiere)
• Gabriel Jackson: Requiem (Australian Premiere)

Conductor: Anthony Pasquill