Internationally acclaimed ensemble ‘VOCES8’ to perform in Williamsburg on Dec. 17

WILLIAMSBURG – The Virginia Arts Festival is hosting the internationally acclaimed vocal ensemble VOCES8 for the group’s first appearance in Williamsburg.

The Grammy-nominated British octet is scheduled to present a holiday concert at Saint Bede Catholic Church, located at 3686 Ironbound Road, on Dec. 17 at 7:30 p.m.

VOCES8 is the world’s top streaming classical vocal group. They tour globally, performing an extensive centuries-spanning repertoire in a Capella concerts, as well as in collaborations with leading musicians and world-renowned orchestras.

The ensemble has been hailed by critics including the United Kingdom’s Gramophone Magazine and The Independent. The Independent describes the group as bringing “a perfect blend of calm contentment and soaring spirit” to the season.

Since their inception in 2005, VOCES8 has performed at notable venues across the globe, including Wigmore Hall, Berlin Philharmonie, Vienna Konzerthaus, Tokyo Opera City and Sydney Opera House.

Robert W. Cross, Virginia Arts Festival’s artistic director, said it is a joy to be able to bring to the gifted octet to the Historic Triangle this holiday season.

“This is one of the most exalting, moving, glorious sounds I’ve ever experienced and Saint Bede in Williamsburg will lend its own beauty to the occasion,” Cross said.

The Williamsburg concert is the second in a series of three to be held in Virginia this year. The first was held on Dec. 16 in Norfolk. The group will also perform in Richmond at River Road Baptist Church on Dec. 18 at 7:30 p.m.

Tickets are available online at vafest.org.