Edinburgh University Chamber Choir comes to Cumnock
/Edinburgh University Chamber Choir, a longstanding point of pride for the institution, are bringing their divine sound to Cumnock, performing as part of The Cumnock Tryst on Saturday 11th March 2023. The choir routinely tours around the country and beyond, with their annual foreign tour being a main highlight of the University’s musical calendar. Under the direction of Michael Bawtree, one of the country’s leading figures in choral conducting, the choir is now set to reach new heights in their already extensive and achieved history.
EUCC accepts only the very best in vocal talent from across the University, and requires new entrants to undergo a rigorous audition process in order to ensure high standards. Their past repertoires have included some of the most challenging vocal pieces composed between the 12th and 21st century. This year is no different, with their programme at Cumnock bringing a range of music from the traditional, sacred choral works from the likes of Bach and Grieg, all the way to more contemporary pieces of classical music, some even composed by Edinburgh University Chamber Choir composers.
In the past year, EUCC have continued to go from strength to strength, recently performing on BBC Radio 4’s flagship Sunday Worship programme. Audience have plenty to look forward to in this very special concert, where the gorgeous surroundings of Cumnock Old Church will be accompanied by the choir’s youthful energy and unfailing attention to harmonic detail. The choir will also be joined by a guest conductor in the form of Cumnock Tryst’s Artistic Director, James MacMillan, who will be leading a performance of his new work, Who Shall Separate Us?. The piece was written to be performed as part of the ceremonies for the funeral of HM Queen Elizabeth II and has since garnered huge praise.
Increasing accessibility is a key consideration when attracting audiences to classical music, and Cumnock Tryst has made great efforts to ensure as wide an audience experiences the likes of artists such as the EUCC. Tickets for the concert can be purchased at a discount for local residents, and are free for those currently unwaged or under-18. Artistic Director and Founder of Cumnock Tryst, Sir James Macmillan CBE said, “I am absolutely delighted that the Edinburgh University Chamber Choir will be joining us here at the Cumnock Tryst for their debut performance. Every time I get to hear the Choir, I am absolutely blown away by the complexity and richness of their sound; to be performing at such a high standard at their age is truly something special. It really must be seen to be believed.”
