The Hilliard Ensemble was an acclaimed British vocal chamber group, named after the Elizabethan miniaturist painter Nicholas Hilliard. Founded in 1974, the ensemble initially focused on the performance of early English music, which would become one of its defining traits. Over time, the group's repertoire expanded to include works from the medieval period through to the twentieth century, and they became well known for their performances of both early music and contemporary compositions.

Renowned for their pure tone and precise harmonization, The Hilliard Ensemble gained international acclaim for their collaborations with other artists, most notably the Norwegian saxophonist Jan Garbarek, which resulted in the groundbreaking album "Officium". This innovative blend of jazz and ancient choral music surprised and delighted audiences worldwide, cementing the ensemble's reputation for both versatility and artistic adventurousness. The ensemble disbanded in 2014, leaving behind a rich discography that showcases their extensive range and commitment to the exploration of vocal music across different eras and genres. Their final years saw a variety of remarkable releases, including the reflective "Remember Me, My Dear," which was recorded live in Bellinzona in 2014, demonstrating their enduring passion for music-making right up to their final farewell performances.

Genres

Choral

Classical Performance

Early Music

Early Music Choir

Madrigal

Medieval

Polyphony

Vocal Ensemble

Related Artists

The Sixteen

Anonymous 4

Stile Antico

Oxford Camerata

Ensemble Organum

The Gesualdo Six

Gothic Voices

The Swingle Singers

Sequentia

Efterklang

Theatre Of Voices

Ensemble Gilles Binchois

Latest Release

Dufay: Missa Se la face ay pale (Live at Stadtpfarrkirche Mariä Himmelfahrt Melk, 6/8/2003)

Guillaume Dufay•

The Hilliard Ensemble

Album - 19 Tracks - Released April 18, 2024