The King's Singers have found their new bass: Piers Connor Kennedy will take the place of Johnny Howard, who has been a part of the group for fourteen years.
, Kennedy has made a career as both a singer and a composer of vocal and instrumental music, having written the Three Choirs Festival, Wigmore Hall, and Ex Cathedra. SANSARA, Ensemble Pro Victoria, Christ Church Cathedral Choir Oxford, and The Choir of St John's College have also recorded his music. As a singer, the Welsh-Irish bass performs with London-based consorts including The Tallis Scholars, Tenebrae, Siglo de Oro and Ensemble Pro Victoria.
Concluding their auditions last month, the King's Singers cited "the richness and warmth of [Kennedy's] low range, his clear and present musicianship, and his thoroughly entertaining performances." The lower voices are particularly important for the internationally-acclaimed ensemble, which is known for building their harmony on their bass and two baritones.
Kennedy expressed his gratitude at becoming part of the group, saying: "I'm very humbled, chuffed and excited to be the 29th King's Singer. It's a real 'pinch me' moment! Johnny leaves enormous shoes to fill, literally and figuratively, and as a fan it'll be an odd experience not hearing him as part of the group in the future!"
Howard was encouraging, describing his successor as "an extraordinary singer, musician and performer, who bowled us all over throughout the audition process." He added that he feels "very proud to be handing the bass mantle on to somebody so deserving after 14 very happy years as a King's Singer."
Howard will still sing with the group for seven months, during which Kennedy will travel and rehearse with the ensemble in order learn their vast repertoire. He will assume his new role as the King's Singer's fifth baritone in January 2025, succeeding Howard (2010-2024), Stephen Connolly (1988-2010), Colin Mason (1982-1987), and Brian Kay (1968-1982).
