Thomas Tallis’ tour de force of Renaissance choral polyphony, the amazingly intricate 40-part a cappella motet “Spem in Alium”, will be performed by members of The Dessoff Choirs and friends under the baton of Michel Galante as part of Make Music New York’s free concerts on Monday June 21, 5:45pm at the R.C. Church of St. Andrew in lower Manhattan, 20 Cardinal Hayes Place, and repeated next door at 6:15pm under the arches of the Municipal Building at 1 Centre Street (by Chambers Street). Come hear this rarely performed masterpiece of devotional choral music by one of Britain’s greatest composers, sung here in the varied acoustical settings of church and outdoor colonnade. Each rendition will last approximately 10 minutes.

See the listing for MMNY, and a mention of Dessoff, in The New York Times (6/18).

For info on all participating musicians, go to Make Music New York's website.

The Dessoff Choirs is pleased to announce its new Music Director, Christopher Shepard. Mr. Shepard joins us as we end our 85th season, and he follows an illustrious list of conductors who have led Dessoff in uncovering rare gems of the choral repertoire.

Dessoff President Christopher Platt says, "We are thrilled to add a new name to the storied list of music directors of The Dessoff Choirs. Chris Shepard brings us energy and enthusiasm, impeccable musicianship, and an international perspective. Dessoff will continue to grow both musically and organizationally under his leadership and vision."

Mr. Shepard says, "It’s an honor to have been chosen to walk in the footsteps of Dessoff's past conductors, all of whom have contributed so much to American musical life. It’s especially exciting to assume the leadership of a choir whose legacy is so long and rich. I look forward to continuing the Dessoff tradition of exploring unusual music, seeking a contemporary meaning for Renaissance and Baroque music, and bringing new works to life with a choir that has long been one of New York's leading proponents of unheard choral works. Also, as an American who lived abroad for many years, I look forward to forging new partnerships with international musicians and organizations."

Watch this space for details on our first season together!

And read on for more about Mr. Shepard.

Continue reading "New Music Director - Chris Shepard" »

The ROOTS of BACH & BEYOND

Patrick Dupré Quigley, guest conductor
The Dessoff Choirs

Led by one of the hottest young conductors on the Miami choral scene, this program looks back to the rich musical tradition from which Johann Sebastian Bach emerged, offering rarely performed works by Mendelssohn, Schütz, Kuhnau, Frescobaldi, and others, as well as famous motets — Singet dem Herrn and Jesu, Meine Freude — by the master himself.

St. George’s Church
E.16th St.at Rutherford Place, east of Third Ave
Manhattan