Sixteen Orchestra

Founded in the UK by conductor Harry Christophers in 1979, the Sixteen is a choir that performs renaissance, baroque, and 20th century music accompanied by an orchestra that plays period instruments. Formerly a cathedral chorister and choral scholar, Harry Christophers‘ vision was to blend British chorale tradition with high standards of virtuosity and musicianship. The musicians that support the Sixteen were originally credited as the Orchestra of the Sixteen, but their name was officially changed to the Symphony of Harmony of Invention in 1997. With a catalog that includes over 100 releases - including compilations - since 1980, the Sixteen has become one of the most popular vocal choir in the UK’s history. From releases like Salve Regina (Music from the Eton Choirbook) (1980) to Purcell: The Fairy Queen (2003) and Good Night, Beloved (2021), the Sixteen’s catalog has been warmly received by critics, classical radio, and music lovers worldwide. They regularly perform live around the world and perform at major concert halls and festivals including the Barbican Centre in London, the Bridgewater Hall in Manchester, the Concertgebouw in Amsterdam, the Sydney Opera House, Tokyo Opera City and the Vienna Musikverein. The ensemble has become ‘The Voices of Classic FM’ and make regular appearances on BBC television.