Our Aim
This year, Somerville Choir will record its next CD, Moonrise: the debut recording of the choral music of Christopher Churcher a young composer, music undergraduate at the University of Oxford, and a member of the Somerville Choir.
The album will be a full-length collection, featuring a carefully-selected sequence of twelve choral works by Christopher. The repertoire spans from Christmas music to secular poetry settings, much of it commissioned or premiered by Somerville. At the heart of the album are Christopher's Pride Motets - A choral cycle for choir and piano, commissioned by Somerville College for its annual Pride Contemplations. These motets set texts by queer poets, exploring themes of queer identity with depth and sensitivity.
Why this project matters
Christopher has received national acclaim for his work in recent years, and this project marks a pivotal moment in his journey as a musician. For a composer of Christopher’s age, opportunities like this are exceptionally rare. This recording has the potential to serve as a springboard for his career, bringing his music to wider audiences, and establishing his voice in contemporary classical music.
This project is also important to Somerville Choir and College. Building on the Choir’s 2022 BBC Music Magazine Award-winning disc, The Dawn of Grace, this album showcases Somerville’s commitment to championing new music and emerging talent. Moonrise will be a unique contribution to the choral repertoire, exploring the intersections between music and queer identity—stories and narratives which underscore Somerville’s forward-thinking mission. Your support will help bring this project to life.
How you can help
Thanks to generous subsidies from Somerville, we have already covered over 50% of the costs for this recording.
However, producing a professional album is an expensive endeavour. Christopher still needs to raise £11,000 to bring this project to fruition. To close the funding gap, Christopher is applying for grants, and we are seeking your support through this crowdfunder to raise the remaining £5,000. These funds will cover the CD production, and all photography and filming costs.
As a thank you, those who donate £75 or more will receive a free physical copy of the CD. Those who donate £200 or more will have their name listed as a major donor in the CD booklet.
You can play a vital role in supporting this project. Your contribution, no matter the size, will make a tangible impact. Any donations will be received with gratitude by Christopher and the Choir.