Ahead of them coming to Bradford Cathedral we spoke to co-founder Josie Baker to find out more about them, and what to expect when they arrive.
Could you start by giving us some background on the consort?
We formed The Hope Street Consort in October 2023, though our journey together began much earlier when we met in one of the choirs at the University of Liverpool. Our name pays homage to Hope Street in Liverpool, a significant road that links the city's two cathedrals, where we frequently perform as lay clerks and scholars.
Inspired by renowned groups like VOCES8 and The King's Singers, we love that the nature of the consort allows us the freedom to choose our repertoire, a luxury not often afforded in other choirs we participate in. Additionally, performing in a small ensemble enables us to tackle more complex pieces and refine them to a high standard.
You are a co-founder on the Consort. What inspired you to start it back in October 2023?
Well, what’s fairly unusual about us is that there is no leader; similar to Stile Antico, we work as a collective and make decisions as a group. So, in that sense, all six of us are co-founders. However, the initial idea to start the group came from Jess. After a weekend singing with the Dolor Consort in Bath, she was inspired by their sound and collaborative approach, often performing without a conductor. Additionally, there aren't many opportunities like this for young singers in Liverpool, so we had to create our own. Thus, we started the consort and haven’t looked back!
You are leading the music at our Choral Eucharist on Sunday 4th August. Could you tell us about the music programme?
For Sunday Eucharist we’ve chosen two firm Liverpool Cathedral favourites, firstly, Communion Service in E by Harold Darke. This setting was originally written for the Choir of King’s College, Cambridge, where he served as interim Director of Music during WWII. Secondly, we’ve chosen a beautiful anthem by Canadian composer Eleanor Daley, called ‘Upon Your Heart’. Born in 1955, Daley is known for her gift for melodic writing which we hope to showcase this on the 4th.
Last month you performed a concert by candlelight. How did that go?
We are extremely lucky to have such a supportive group of people who came to our concert us last month in Liverpool. It was our biggest concert yet and we were very happy with how it went. There were even a few tears during some of the pieces…
What are the consort's plans for the rest of 2024?
First, some bittersweet news: our beloved Anna will be leaving us in August to work for a year in Bangkok! While we are very sad to see her go, we are incredibly proud of her and can't wait to see her flourish in her new role. As for our plans, we have several exciting concerts lined up for the next academic year, which we will announce when the time is right. Stay tuned!
How can people find out more about the consort online?
If you’re interested in following the consort’s progression please do follow us on our Instagram, Facebook and Linkedin profiles. We’ll be happy to see you there!
The Hope Street Consort will lead the music on Sunday 4th August 2024 at 10:30am, and this service is also streamed online.