2019 is the 40th anniversary of the admission of women to Christ’s College, Cambridge and the college choir mark this anniversary with the release of the first CD devoted to the music of Christ’s College alumna, Annabel Rooney.

Annabel Rooney writes beautifully crafted and imaginative works in an expressive modern English style, setting traditional texts in an illuminating, colourful, and creative way; a blossoming talent and an original voice.

Annabel Rooney read music at Christ’s College, Cambridge, with a university instrumental award on the cello, having previously been a cellist in the National Youth Orchestra. She continued her studies in Cambridge with an MPhil and a PhD on eighteenth-century opera. Based in Devon since 2006, Annabel began composing seriously in 2011. She is also a freelance cellist and instrumental teacher. Alongside regular appearances at Evensong at Christ’s College, Annabel’s music has been performed by choirs including those of the Chapel Royal, Exeter and Ely Cathedrals, and Selwyn College, Cambridge.

Christ’s College Choir is widely recognized as one of Cambridge’s finest mixed-voice ensembles. In addition to singing two services a week in the College Chapel the Choir regularly gives concerts around the UK (including a number each year with a professional orchestra in St Martin’s-in-the-Fields and St John’s, Smith Square). Each year an extended tour is undertaken to Australia, New Zealand or North America.

‘Rowland draws from his talented young singers well-controlled, expressive interpretations of a very challenging programme..’ - ***** Choir and Organ (REGCD511)

‘...strong performance here with well-regulated dynamics and attention to textual detail.’ - American Record Guide (REGCD511)

‘...well-nigh faultless… these are definitive accounts’ - American Record Guide (REGCD305)

‘...truly excellent performances...’ - International Record Review (REGCD168)