The first time we listened to The King’s Singers, we never realised that a cappella could be so mellowing. Wait, mellowing is an understatement. ‘Beautiful’ is the word. It occurred to us that no instrument can perform such dulcet music better than the human voice.

Named after King’s College in Cambridge, this vocal ensemble was formed by six choral scholars in 1968, who have since been replaced with new choristers: David Hurley (countertenor), Timothy Wayne-Wright (countertenor), Paul Phoenix (tenor), Philip Lawson (baritone), Christopher Gabbitas (baritone) and Stephen Connolly (bass).

The King’s Singers seldom include musical instruments in their performances because their rich voices make up the various melodies. The tonal blend is compounded with soft falsettos and high-pitched vibratos, thus giving the music a chirpy edge whenever necessary. And when you’re too engrossed in the harmony, the bass humming in the background suddenly interjects with dashes of fortissimo to create another sonorous musical surprise.

It’s amazing how their diction, phrasing and balance can be executed so dexterously. Everyone in the group knows exactly when to sing their parts or drag the music to a quicker pace. Playing to different moods, The King’s Singer can either belt out a gleeful choral presentation or set you weeping. Listening to their poignant version of ‘Danny Boy’ for example may just move you to tears. 

The King’s Singers are truly a legacy and their superb vocal arrangements will surely enchant all music lovers out there.

Kong Wai Yeng