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Who we are
Cerddorion is a mixed chamber choir dedicated to outstanding performances of adventurous programs that span the breadth of the choral repertoire from medieval polyphony to new compositions. As befits its name (cerddorion is Welsh for "musicians"), the ensemble aspires to musicianship in the fullest sense, using the human voice to explore and fulfill the expressive potential of the art. Cerddorion was founded by Susanne Peck in 1995.
Now beginning its fifteenth season, Cerddorion is one of New York’s most highly regarded volunteer choral ensembles. A chamber group of thirty mixed voices, it is known for its eclectic repertoire, encompassing music from the Renaissance to the contemporary. Audiences have come to appreciate the group's interpretive depth and technical excellence in many styles.
Besides presenting its own varied programs, Cerddorion is frequently invited to perform with other acclaimed artists. Past collaborations include: the North American premiere of Sir John Tavener's all-night vigil, The Veil of the Temple, performed at Lincoln Center's Avery Fisher Hall (with Dessoff Choral Consortium and choristers from London's Temple Church); several appearances with the Christopher Caines Dance Company; baroque opera performances with the early music instrumental ensemble Concert Royal; and serving as the resident teaching ensemble for the Dennis Keene Choral Festival in Kent, Connecticut.
In 2006, Cerddorion presented at the Eastern Divisional Convention of the American Choral Directors Association the works they had commissioned from three New York composers for their tenth anniversary season. September 2007 marked the release on the Tzadik label of A Handful of World, Cerddorion's first commercial recording. The CD is dedicated to vocal works by New York composer Lisa Bielawa and includes Cerddorion's performance of Bielawa's Lamentations for a City, which was commissioned and first performed by Cerddorion in 2004. |
