This piece, Spem in alium, by Tallis, contains 40 distinct voice parts. Forty voices.
For those of you who haven’t sung in a choral context or aren’t familiar with the terminology, a standard mixed choir would sing pieces in 4 voices (musical lines), or maybe challenging piece in 6 or 8. This one has forty. Specifically, it’s scored for 8 choirs of 5 voices. 8 full choirs all singing different music to form one larger work. Definitely over the top, and definitely too cool to pass up.
Also, the score is available here if you like to read along.
If you are in the D.C. area and would like to have a rare chance to sing this magnificent work with other choral connoisseurs, join us on February 22 at Holy Comforter-St. Cyprian parish in D.C! Registration and further information can be found here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/spem-in-alium-registration-9261018957?nomo=1
If you are in the D.C. area and would like to have a rare chance to sing this magnificent work with other choral connoisseurs, join us on February 22 at Holy Comforter-St. Cyprian parish in D.C! Registration and further information can be found here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/spem-in-alium-registration-9261018957?nomo=1