¡TONE UP! – Early & New Sacred Polyphony
Applications open shortly...
A three-day ensemble-singing workshop on sacred polyphony, hosted by Excelsia College, and led by the composer Antony Pitts. The final day includes a public masterclass, as part of the International Christian Choir Competition. Applicants should be able to sing one to a part and quickly familiarise themselves with potentially demanding new music. The course fee of $150 includes morning tea and lunch, and all musical scores, which will be provided beforehand; unsuccessful applicants will be refunded the full amount.
Thursday 11 July 1000–1630
Friday 12 July 1000–1630
Saturday 13 July 1000–2000
Excelsia College, 69-71 Waterloo Road, Macquarie Park 2113, NSW
Excelsia College is a tertiary educational institution and academic community with a Christian worldview, and has an active School of Creative And Performing Arts.
Applications open shortly...
Antony Pitts
International conductor, composer, and producer Antony Pitts has over 30 years’ experience in choral directing, founding TONUS PEREGRINUS while at New College, Oxford, and leading The Song Company, Australia’s national vocal ensemble, as Artistic Director for seven years. He is the inaugural William Byrd Fellow, and Excelsia Ambassador at Excelsia College.
Formerly a Hampton Court Chapel Royal treble, New College Oxford Academic and Honorary Senior Scholar, Royal Academy of Music Senior Lecturer, and BBC Radio 3 Senior Producer, his music has been performed at London’s Wigmore Hall and Westminster Cathedral, Amsterdam’s Concertgebouw, Berlin’s Philharmonie Kammermusiksaal, and the Sydney Opera House, including a 50-part motet commissioned by Sydney Philharmonia Choirs, called XLX – Mente cordis sui.
Antony is skilled in inspiring confidence and bringing out the best in all he works with, nurturing singers 'development through community workshops and training programs for emerging artists. Amateur and professional singers alike can refine their skills through Antony’s intimate musical knowledge, unique approach to historically informed performance from original notation, and extensive performance and recording experience in diverse genres.
¡TONE UP!
“Thoroughly enjoyed the three days. I came away feeling enriched and inspired, with the choice of music being challenging and satisfying. Can't recommend TONUS AUSTRALIS highly enough.”
Jess Ciampa, participant in the ¡TONE UP! at Excelsia College, Sydney in January 2024
“A truly unforgettable experience, both as to learning and enjoyment. Antony’s knowledge and experience stood out clearly, as did his patience. I would be happy to recommend the workshop and thoroughly enjoyed the company and the enthusiasm of everyone who took part.”
Bob Jordan, participant in the inaugural ¡TONE UP!, Sydney, Jan 2023