About Voces8
VOCES8 is a globally recognized British vocal ensemble renowned for its captivating a cappella performances. Formed in 2005 by brothers Paul and Barnaby Smith, both former choristers of Westminster Abbey, the octet has carved a significant niche in the world of classical and contemporary vocal music. Their musical style is remarkably diverse, spanning early English and European Renaissance music, traditional folk, classic jazz, and pop, alongside numerous contemporary commissions and their own innovative arrangements. VOCES8 is celebrated for its impeccable sound, precise intonation, and an inherent versatility that allows them to seamlessly traverse genres, establishing them as a leading voice in the international choral scene.
- VOCES8 is the flagship ensemble of the VOCES8 Foundation, a music education charity dedicated to inspiring people through music and promoting 'Music Education For All', reaching up to 40,000 to 50,000 individuals annually through workshops and masterclasses.
- Their extensive repertoire includes commissions from notable composers such as Ēriks Ešenvalds, Ola Gjeilo, and Jonathan Dove, alongside bespoke arrangements by their arranger-in-residence, Jim Clements.
- The ensemble was nominated for a Grammy Award in 2023 for their Decca Classics recording of Christopher Tin’s “The Lost Birds,” featuring a collaboration with the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra.
- During the COVID-19 pandemic, VOCES8 pioneered online initiatives such as the "LIVE From London" digital festival and the VOCES8 Digital Academy, nurturing a new online audience and providing accessible choral resources globally.
Performing music by VOCES8 offers a uniquely rewarding experience for vocalists and choral ensembles across various skill levels. Their sheet music, which includes original compositions, bespoke arrangements, and educational materials published through VOCES8 Publishing, E.C. Schirmer, and Edition Peters, caters to advanced high school, collegiate, and amateur choirs. Whether tackling a technically demanding contemporary work or an exquisitely crafted arrangement of a well-known tune, singers can aspire to emulate the group's signature blend, warmth, and clarity. Engaging with their repertoire provides an opportunity to develop precise ensemble skills, explore a wide array of musical styles, and connect with pieces that are both challenging and profoundly beautiful, often available with varying difficulties from easy to advanced.