Described as England’s premier choral ensemble, Grammy-winning a cappella group The King’s Singers will be performing at the Howard Performing Arts Center on Feb. 10. With songs ranging from classical to popular and religious to secular, the King’s Singers’ “” promises a delightful performance.
Since its creation by six choral singers studying under choral director David Willcocks at King’s College, the group has undergone many line-up changes but remains a sextet composed of two countertenors, one tenor, two baritones and one bass. Currently, the group is made up of Patrick Dunachie (since 2016), Edward Button (since 2019), Julian Gregory (since 2014), Christopher Bruerton (since 2012), Nick Ashby (since 2019) and newcomer Piers Connor Kennedy (since 2025). Notable alumni include Bill Ives, Robert Tyson, Philip Lawson, Jeremy Jackman, Bob Chilcott and Nigel Short.
Initially conceived in 1965 under the name “Schola Cantorum Pro Musica Profana in Cantabrigiense”—and briefly going by the simpler, but only slightly less wordy “Six Choral Singers of King’s College Cambridge”—the six-man group had their official debut under their current name at London’s Queen Elizabeth Hall in 1968. Known for their eclectic choice of material (in their initial performances, the singers didn’t know enough of one kind of music to fill a concert), the King’s Singers became regulars on Johnny Carson’s Tonight Show and then an international phenomenon.
Performing at prestigious venues all over the world, the singers lend their voices to covers and original commissioned pieces alike. In 2002, the group with the Mormon Tabernacle Choir at the Winter Olympics. Their 2008 album “Simple Gifts” won them their first Grammy Award for Best Classical Crossover Album, and 2012 brought their second for Best Choral Performance of Eric Whitacre’s “The Stolen Child.” Other accolades include an Emmy and a spot in Gramophone’s .
With over 100 albums under their belts, the King’s Singers have also dedicated themselves to giving back. In addition to workshops and masterclasses, they founded a charity in 2018 to celebrate their 50th anniversary: . Their nonprofit has three projects aimed at widening “the reach and impact of choral music” by opening up opportunities for singers and composers to improve their craft. The project benefits listeners as well, giving away free tickets and investing in innovative ways to engage audiences at home, such as with sing-along videos that show their performances along with the musical score.
The King’s Singers have been praised for “unrivaled technique, musicianship and versatility” “spot-on intonation,” an “impeccable vocal blend,” “flawless articulation” and “incisive timing.” To see them live, come to the HPAC at 7 p.m. on Feb. 10.
Tickets are on sale for $35 ($10 for students and children) and can be purchased .
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