Composer Eric Whitacre was named the BBC Singers’ new artist-in-residence, bringing one of the world’s foremost choral composers to the BBC’s professional chamber choir in time for its 100th anniversary this year.
Whitacre, 54, is world-renowned for choral compositions such as “Lux Aurumque” and “Sleep,” as well as his Virtual Choir projects, the most recent of which brought together 17,572 singers from 129 countries to perform together on YouTube during the early months of the COVID-19 pandemic.
The BBC Singers said the composer will work closely with Director Jonathan Manners to develop “an enriching programme of work for concerts and broadcasts.” He will also play a key role in the choir’s 100th anniversary celebrations.
As recently as February, the BBC Singers faced near-imminent demise as the British broadcaster planned to eliminate the group in order to cut costs. The BBC reversed its plans following a public outcry and support provided by the VOCES8 Foundation.
Whitacre and the BBC Singers perform together at BBC Prom 60, tonight in London’s Royal Albert Hall. The program includes the world premiere of Whitacre’s “Eternity in an Hour,” a BBC co-commission.
