Tallis Scholars
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
The Tallis Scholars is a British vocal ensemble normally consisting of 10 members.
Formed in 1973 by their director Peter Phillips, they specialize in performing a capella sacred vocal music written during the Renaissance by composers from all over Europe. They are currently recognized as one of the world leaders in this field, having risen to a place of prominence among other professional ensembles.
They record widely on their own label, Gimell Records, which boasts a world-wide distribution and some 40 releases spanning repertoire from over 150 years of music history (approximately the years 1450–1600). Their hectic touring schedule brings them to America at least twice a year and Japan at least once every two years.
They are well known among music lovers and academics alike and have paved the way for many younger groups such as The Sixteen, The Cardinall's Musick, The Clerks Group, The Binchois Consort, Trinity Baroque, and The Gabrieli Consort.
Various members of the group have scholarly interests on top of their activities as professional musicians with Phillips having published a scholarly text ("English Sacred Music 1549-1649". London: Gimell Records, 1991.) and Sally Dunkley, Francis Steele, and Deborah Roberts all active as music editors and publishers with interests spanning the Renaissance and early Baroque.
In 2001 The Tallis Scholars Summer Schools were set up providing amateur singers and promising young professionals the opportunity to be coached by Phillips and other members of the ensemble in their specialist repertoire. Now in its 6th year, it has expanded to include two courses, one in Oakham in the UK and one in Seattle, Washington (in conjunction with the [1] Tudor Choir). There are plans for a third in Australia.
