choral music
Ben’s music brings words and images to life…
…his playful approach mixes inspirations and traditions
“…shot through with a poignant beauty” (Classical Source)…
…unleashing vivid musical colour
“it’s Brilliantly done…
…modest and yet so powerful” (Musicweb International)
Ben Rowarth, Newcastle born composer whose music has been described as “bold and brilliantly achieved”, is now recognised internationally for his choral writing. He has received commissions and performances from leading ensembles and institutions including The Tallis Scholars, BBC Singers, The Marian Consort, I Fagiolini, Merton College Oxford, York Minster, The Tower of London, Huddersfield Choral Society and The London Festival of Contemporary Church Music. His choral works are regularly performed overseas, including by Atlanta Master Chorale (USA), The New Consort (USA), Fabercantus (Italy), Capella Dorestad (Netherlands), Divisi Singers (Australia). Ben’s choral music has featured on multiple choral recordings. His music receives regular broadcasts on BBC Radio 3 and his experimental vocal work The Short Walk of a Madman was also used as the soundtrack to the silent film A Short Walk, directed by Sophia Carr-Gomm.
“daring and expressive” (Seen and heard international)
Ben balances his composition practice with a busy performing schedule as singer and conductor. He has worked extensively with some of the UK’s finest professional ensembles, including BBC Singers, I Fagiolini, Siglo De Oro, Exaudi, The Tallis Scholars and The Fieri Consort, and some of the world’s most renowned conductors, including Sir Simon Rattle and Marin Alsop. His experience as a singer gives him a unique take on workings of the voice, the practicalities of performing choral music and the creative potential of music written for singers. As a conductor, he is always delighted at the opportunity to work closely (whether conducting workshops, rehearsals or concerts) with ensembles performing his work. He is next due to direct performances of ‘A Short Walk’ with the Fieri Consort in 2026. He also holds the post of Stipendiary Lecturer in Music at the University of Oxford.
Ben’s music is published by Harrison Parrott’s publishing arm ‘Birdsong’ and distributed worldwide by Faber Music Publishing.
A sneak preview from the rehearsal for the world premiere of 'Echo', York Early Music Festival, 2024