New York Polyphony, Wigmore Hall

New York Polyphony, the relatively young but widely acclaimed quartet, will be gracing the Wigmore Hall with their crystal-clear intonation and refreshingly wide-ranging repertoire in an atmospheric late-night concert on June 27.

The programme spans more than eight centuries, beginning with Vitry and concluding with Richard Rodney Bennett’s Colloquy with God, which he composed specially for the quartet shortly before his death in 2012. The group is comprised of countertenor Geoffrey Williams, tenor Steven Caldicott Wilson, baritone Christopher Herbert and bass Craig Phillips. While vocal music is often considered something of an archaic indulgence, this evening will show just how vibrant the medium remains, highlighting changes as well as continuities.  

Having said which, the golden age of polyphony is still well represented, with pieces by the high Renaissance masters Thomas Tallis, Josquin des Prez and Thomas Crecquillon. The Wigmore Hall is one of the best places to hear music like this – and, while enthusiasts are undoubtedly in for a treat here, there could scarcely be a better introduction for newcomers to the genre either. Give it a try!