The chamber chorus VOICES XXI -- a select ensemble for the 21st century -- was founded in the fall of 2000. It specializes in a cappella repertoire of the 15th, 16th, 20th, and 21st centuries, focusing on rarely performed and little-known masterpieces.

VOICES XXI is also committed to the performance of new works for chamber chorus. It appointed Dr. Carolyn Bock its first composer-in-residence in the 2001-2002 season, and premiered her Snippets, Whispers, Shadows and Charms, a seven-movement suite for chorus, Native American flute, and assorted percussion, in the spring of 2002. Dr. Paul Criswell was named composer-in-residence in the 2004-2005 season. His Ave Verum Corpus was given its first performance in June 2005, his Sussex Carol in December 2005. The two Criswell works are dedicated to Jesse Parker and VOICES XXI.

VOICES XXI performs in churches and other venues in the District of Columbia and suburban Maryland. It made its European debut in June 2003 with performances in Paris and Amboise, France, and returned to Europe in June 2005 for performances at Asolo and Pistoia, Italy. The group's most recent tour abroad was to Ireland in June 2007 with performances at Ennistymon and Cresthaven.

The members of VOICES XXI are all experienced choral singers whose individual credentials include performances in the United States and Europe with renowned conductors and orchestras. Membership is open to all by audition.

Music Director Jesse Parker Rehearsal Accompanist John Romagna Composer in Residence program The birth of VOICES XXI Roster of VOICES XXI members Executive Board Remembering Mary G. Dawson, friend of VOICES XXI Remembering Dick Hays, friend of VOICES XXI

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