Central to Tenebrae’s 25th Anniversary celebrations is Undiscovered Voices; a composition competition created to spotlight and elevate the next generation of choral composers. Full details of the application and selection process are below.

At the live final which took place at Wigmore Hall, London on 30th January 2026, we were joined by internationally renowned composers as our jury, and Tenebrae performed the six finalists’ pieces. The winners were selected by Nigel, Joanna Marsh, Jason Max Ferdinand and Cecilia McDowall.

Left to right: Aaron Nihal King, Cassie White, Sarah Henderson, James Jones, Olly Bowes, James Woodhall, Jason Max Ferdinand, Cecilia McDowall, Joanna Marsh, Nigel Short

First Place – Sarah Henderson with Wanderers

Second Place – Cassie White with travel lines

Third Place – Aaron Nihal King with I Walked Across Two Languages

Congratulations also go to our other finalists; Olly Bowes, James Jones, and James Woodhall.

Designed for emerging composers aged 18 and over, the initiative set out to uncover fresh perspectives within the choral landscape. Composers were invited to submit original works inspired by the broad theme of “journeys and travel,” encouraging creative and imaginative interpretations.

From a wide field of applicants, six finalists were selected through an anonymous shortlisting process to take part in the next stage of the project. Each was given dedicated workshop time with Tenebrae and Nigel Short, offering rare access to one of the world’s leading vocal ensembles and the chance to shape and refine their piece in real time. This competition culminated in a live final at Wigmore Hall on 30 January 2026.

Meet our Finalists

The finalists – Aaron Nihal King, Cassie White, James Jones, James Woodhall, Olly Bowes and Sarah Henderson – impressed both the audience and a jury of international composers including Jason Max Ferdinand, Joanna Marsh and Cecilia McDowall. Sarah Henderson was awarded First Prize for Wanderers, which has since been recorded for Tenebrae’s anniversary album The Journey and will feature in the ensemble’s touring programme. Cassie White and Aaron Nihal King received Second and Third Prizes respectively, and all three placed composers were offered further mentorship through private tuition with members of the jury.

The Undiscovered Voices performance has led directly to commissions and other opportunities. Above all, it was just such a joy to hear the choir and all the pieces and meet so many wonderful people. – James Woodhall

Undiscovered Voices embodies Tenebrae’s commitment to nurturing new talent; a celebration of creativity, opportunity and the future of choral music.

Meet the Jury

With grateful thanks to the Thriplow Charitable Trust and the support of our 25th Anniversary donors for making Undiscovered Voices possible.