Her Heavenly Harmony
Profane Music from the Royal Court
The Queen’s Six
Resonus RES10164. 62’19

Music by Tomkins, Byrd, Morley, Weelkes, Byrd & Tallis.

The UK seems to breed small-scale a capella male choral groups. The aptly named Queen’s Six are one of a particular branch of that breed, with their matching suits and shirts (and, it seems, overcoats) and carefully posed publicity photographs. They are half of the contingent of lay clerks (adult choir singers) at St George’s Chapel in Windsor Castle, an official residence of the Queen as well as her private weekend home. Living within the castle walls, and performing eight or more services a week in the Royal Chapel; the six male singer’s vocal credentials couldn’t be greater. They were formed in 2008 on the 450^th anniversary of Queen Elizabeth I, Continue reading →