VOCES8 announces new ambassador and associate artist role for Blake Morgan

After ten years as a full-time tenor with VOCES8, Morgan will step away from his permanent seat in the ensemble to focus on a broader artistic and educational portfolio. In his new position, he will continue to collaborate closely with the group through composing and arranging, selected concert appearances, digital media production and workshop leadership. A central strand of the role will see Morgan dedicating more time to composition and arrangement – areas in which he has already shaped the ensemble’s sound and repertoire, including through his recording project Windows: Reimaginings. The new structure is designed to give greater space for this work to develop while maintaining his close involvement in the artistic life of the ensemble. The ambassadorial dimension will also extend his contribution to the Foundation’s global educational activity, enabling further collaborations, residencies and partnerships with choirs, academic institutions and musical organisations internationally. Morgan said, ‘VOCES8 has been home for a huge part of my musical life, and I’m incredibly grateful for everything we’ve built together. This new role allows me to develop my work as a composer, arranger and educator while remaining closely connected to the group and the Foundation’s mission. I’m excited about the opportunities ahead.’ Barnaby Smith, Artistic Director of VOCES8, said, ‘Blake has made an extraordinary contribution to VOCES8 over many years, both musically and personally. We’re excited that this new role allows him to focus even more on his creative voice as a composer and arranger, while continuing to share his experience as a performer and educator. It’s a natural evolution that opens new possibilities both for Blake and for the ensemble.’ Paul Smith, Chief Executive of the VOCES8 Foundation, added, ‘Blake’s new role reflects the breadth of talent that artists can bring to the Foundation beyond a traditional performance position. As an educator, creator and collaborator, he has already made a significant impact, and we look forward to seeing how this next chapter expands our work internationally.’ As part of the transition, VOCES8 will begin the search for a new singer to fill the tenor chair, with auditions and development planned over the next six months. The Foundation has confirmed that it will support and promote Morgan’s work as a composer, arranger and educator.