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       founded in 1866
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  Registered Charity
  No.  1010174
                                                        Our Patron
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Emma KirkbyDame Emma Kirkby

EMMA KIRKBY is the internationally renowned soprano and her pre-
eminence in the world of early music was demon-strated to perfection in our first Patron's Concert in November 1996.

Her distinctively coloured voice, coupled with her virtuosity, outstanding breath control, innate musicianship and communicative powers ensure that all who heard her were captivated.

"For two decades Kirkby's clear, agile voice has epitomised the pure sound of early music singing. She remains one of the treasures of the music world". (Toronto Globe and Mail).


As a soloist she performs throughout the world, appearing in an ever-widening circle of orchestras and chamber ensembles, including the Academy of Ancient Music, London Baroque, the orchestra of The Age of Enlightenment, Freiburger Barock, Tafelmusic and Studio de Musique Ancienne de Montreal. In addition to her solo work, she sings frequently in her duo partnership with lutenist Anthony Rooley as well as performing and recording vocal chamber music with the Consort of Musicke.

Emma's recording output is prolific, numbering by now well over 100 records. The incisive intelligence, as well as the uniquely beautiful voice and brilliant musicianship which she brings to her performances, make hearing Emma Kirkby an experience not to be forgotten.

Her Patron's concerts are highlights in our musical calendar. She has now sung with us on four occasions.

Emma receiving her Honorary Doctorate at OxfordShe became a Dame in June 2007 and received an Honorary Degree of Doctor of Music from the University of Oxford in June 2008 (see picture left).


Read her latest 'biog'
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June 2011
Emma's Award of the Queen's Medal for Music

Immediately after Emma performed at the birthday celebration for Roy Goodman last January, Sir Peter Maxwell Davies, the Master of the Queen's Music (a post like that of the Poet Laureate) came onto the stage to announce that Emma is to be the sixth recipient of the Queen's Medal for Music.
The Medal rewards an individual who has had a major influence on the musical life of the UK. The Queen presented the medal in person in a ceremony at the palace, in June, 2011.
The award was first made in 2005, when the recipient was conductor and composer Sir Charles Mackerras.
Emma KirkbyEmma Kirkby has been our Patron since May 1993 and continues to be a most supportive patron, saying...

"...the wonderful Derby Choral Union - one of Britain's longest established groups and still very healthy today, and of which I'm proud to be a Patron."

Emma Kirkby Emma Kirkby
Photos by Eric Richmond
Richard Dacey with Emma Kirkby Ken Spruce with Emma Kirkby
   Richard Dacey (MD)   Ken Spruce (then-chairman) both with Emma Kirkby
Nov. 1996: Emma Kirkby singing at her first Patron's Concert with the DCU in Derby Cathedral


Nov. 1996
:
Emma Kirkby singing at her
first Patron's Concert with the DCU in Derby Cathedral
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http://www.emmakirkby.com/news.shtml 
 

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