Chris Why

Chris is a freelance tenor based in West Yorkshire and currently studies with Paul Nilon. He commenced his formal training as a chorister at Lincoln Cathedral under Aric Prentice. Chris continued his education at the University of Sheffield, where he gained a first-class degree in music, receiving the Mrs Stewart Blake recital prize in his final year. In his undergraduate years, Chris served as a Choral Scholar and Lay Clerk at Wakefield Cathedral. Upon graduating, he then obtained a Lay Clerkship at Manchester Cathedral under the direction of Christopher Stokes. Chris has performed with numerous ensembles, including the BBC Radio 4 Daily Service Singers, Stile Antico and the Armonico Consort. His interest in polyphonic works led him to establish and direct his own professional vocal ensemble, the Tallis Consort, which he has directed since 2017. As two entities, the consort consists of a highly regarded professional quartet that performs across the country and a larger ensemble for concerts. As part of the Tallis Consort's upcoming engagements, the group will deliver polyphonic programs at Beverley Minster and Bolton Priory. As a soloist, Chris enjoys a varied mix of oratorio and recital work. Recent highlights include Bach Johannes-Passion (Evangelist) with Lincoln Cathedral Choir, Britten Saint Nicolas at Beverley Minster, Verdi Requiem with Exeter Festival Chorus, Rossini Petite Messe Solennelle with the Yorkshire Philharmonic Choir, Schubert Winterreise at Lancaster Priory and a one-per-part rendition of Bach Matthäus-Passion (Evangelist & arias) directed by David Stancliffe. Chris is committed to educating and developing young singers despite being in the early stages of his career. He is responsible for the vocal development of the Choral Scholars at Sheffield Cathedral and the Choristers of Wakefield Cathedral, additionally teaching singing to the pupils of Gateways School. In his spare time, Chris also runs a thriving private singing practice.