Historic recording marks countdown to Oriel College’s 700th Anniversary

Scheduled for release in January 2026, the launch of the CD will begin a series of events celebrating Oriel’s history since its founding in 1326.

The recording includes works by alumni composers Edmund Fellowes and Herbert Chappell, alongside contemporary pieces commissioned from composers Judith Bingham, David Briggs, Cheryl Frances-Hoad, and Oriel’s Fellow and Director of Music, David Maw. The selection reflects Oriel’s ongoing contribution to choral music with music from the period of the college’s foundation to the present day.

Maw says, “Music plays a central role in Oriel’s cultural life, with our choir at its heart. Our septcentenary provides an opportunity to celebrate this heritage and recognise Oriel’s contribution to choral music, honouring our past while embracing contemporary creativity.”

The Oriel College Chapel Choir, made up of approximately 20 student singers, was joined by an octet of professional vocalists, soprano Grace Davidson, the Tippett Quartet, and guitarist Craig Ogden.

The project received generous support from alumni, particularly Jeremy Amos (1966), who funded the recording in memory of his friend Nicholas G Stodgen (1967).

Adrian Green, Managing Director of Convivium Records says, “We are pleased to collaborate with Oriel College Chapel Choir and Dr Maw on this project, which highlights the musical heritage of Oriel College as it approaches its 700-year anniversary.”