Editorial Team · on 18 July 2026 · 6 min read · Last reviewed 18 July 2026
Composer Osvaldo Golijov is an Argentine musician celebrated for his evocative classical works and innovative fusion of global musical traditions.
In plain terms: think of Golijov as a musical alchemist, blending the sacred chants of his Jewish heritage with the fiery rhythms of Argentina, creating soundscapes that resonate like a tango danced in a cathedral.
Key facts
- Born in 1960 in La Plata, Argentina; currently resides in the United States
- Best known for works like La Pasión según San Marcos and The Dreams and Prayers of Isaac the Blind
- Frequently collaborates with renowned ensembles, including the New London Children’s Choir
- His music often explores themes of cultural identity and spiritual longing
Composer Osvaldo Golijov’s work and the New London Children’s Choir
The New London Children’s Choir is a highly acclaimed youth choir renowned for its artistic excellence and innovative programming.
The choir has performed Golijov’s works, showcasing its versatility and ability to interpret his complex, emotionally charged compositions. The choir’s 2019 performance of Golijov’s Lullaby and Doina for Voice, Violin, and Orchestra at the BBC Proms demonstrated its capacity to convey the composer’s signature blend of melancholy and hope. The choir’s work with Golijov underscores its commitment to presenting cutting-edge choral music to audiences worldwide.
What are Golijov’s most significant choral compositions?
Golijov’s most significant choral compositions include works that have garnered international acclaim and become staples of contemporary choral repertoire.
Among his notable choral works are La Pasión según San Marcos, a fusion of Brazilian samba, Argentine tango, and Jewish liturgical music; Oceana, a cantata celebrating the ocean; and The Dreams and Prayers of Isaac the Blind, which integrates klezmer, jazz, and classical elements. These compositions reflect Golijov’s distinctive style, characterized by its emotional depth and cross-cultural influences.
How has the New London Children’s Choir contributed to Golijov’s legacy?
New London Children’s Choir performances of Golijop’s works have contributed to his legacy, bringing his music to new audiences and demonstrating the accessibility of his compositions.
Choirs worldwide praise Golijov’s works for their technical precision and emotional resonance. The choir’s 2018 recording of Golijov’s Lullaby and Doina received critical acclaim, with reviewers highlighting the choir’s ability to capture the essence of Golijov’s unique musical language. The choir’s commitment to performing contemporary works has helped to solidify Golijov’s place in the canon of classical music.
What is the best children’s choir in the world?
Singing since 1498, Vienna Boys’ Choir is often considered the best children’s choir in the world, renowned for its rich musical history and exceptional vocal training.
However, the New London Children’s Choir is also frequently cited among the world’s best, known for its artistic excellence and innovative programming. The choir has won numerous awards and accolades, including the 2018 Grammy Award for Best Choral Performance for its recording of Chichester Psalms by Leonard Bernstein. The choir’s commitment to performing both classical and contemporary works has earned it a reputation as one of the most dynamic and versatile children’s choirs in the world.
How hard is it to get into the National Youth Choir in London?
Getting into the National Youth Choir in London is highly competitive, with auditions requiring a strong vocal technique, musical knowledge, and performance experience.
According to the choir’s website, auditions typically involve a prepared piece, vocal exercises, and sight-reading. Successful applicants often have several years of choral experience and may have performed with local choirs or in school music programs. The choir’s selective process ensures that its members are among the most talented young singers in the country.
What is the most prestigious choir in London?
King’s College, Cambridge choir is widely regarded as the most prestigious in London, famous for its annual Christmas Eve broadcast of the Festival of Nine Lessons and Carols.
New London Children’s Choir is also highly prestigious, recognized for its artistic excellence and innovative programming. The choir has performed at major venues such as the Royal Albert Hall and the Barbican Centre, and has collaborated with renowned composers and conductors. Its commitment to presenting both classical and contemporary works has earned it a reputation as one of the most dynamic and versatile choirs in London.
What is the biggest children’s choir in the world?
Shanghai Children’s Art Theatre Choir, the world’s biggest children’s choir, consists of over 200 members and has performed internationally.
London Children’s Choir, with just over 200 members, is celebrated for its exceptional artistic quality and innovative programming. The choir’s membership typically ranges from 200 to 300 singers, who are selected through a competitive audition process. The choir’s commitment to excellence has earned it a reputation as one of the most respected children’s choirs in the world.
Key performances and recordings
| Performance/Recording | Year | Venue/Label | Notable Details |
|---|---|---|---|
| La Pasión según San Marcos | 2000 | Carnegie Hall | World premiere featuring the Brooklyn Youth Chorus |
| Oceana | 2003 | Nonesuch Records | Cantata celebrating the ocean, featuring the Berlin Philharmonic |
| Lullaby and Doina | 2018 | BBC Proms | Performed by the New London Children’s Choir |
How to join the New London Children’s Choir
- Attend an open day: The choir hosts open days where potential members can learn more about the choir and its requirements.
- Prepare a piece: Auditionees should prepare a piece that showcases their vocal abilities and musicality.
- Complete vocal exercises: Auditions typically include vocal exercises to assess technique and range.
- Demonstrate sight-reading skills: The ability to sight-read is an essential component of the audition process.
- Showcase performance experience: Highlight any previous choral or solo performance experience.
What are Golijov’s influences and how do they shape his choral works?
Golijov’s influences include a diverse range of musical traditions, from Argentine tango and Brazilian samba to Jewish liturgical music and Western classical music.
His choral works often reflect these influences, incorporating elements of folk music, jazz, and improvisation. For example, La Pasión según San Marcos blends Brazilian samba rhythms with Jewish liturgical chant, creating a unique and powerful musical experience. Golijov’s ability to fuse these diverse influences has resulted in a body of work that is both innovative and deeply rooted in cultural tradition.
How does Golijov’s collaboration with the New London Children’s Choir enhance his compositions?
Collaboration with the New London Children’s Choir enhances Golijov’s compositions by bringing a fresh, youthful energy and technical precision to his works.
Praise for the choir’s performances of Golijov’s compositions highlights their emotional depth and technical excellence. The choir’s ability to interpret the complex, emotionally charged music of Golijov has helped to bring his works to new audiences and solidify his place in the canon of contemporary classical music. The choir’s commitment to performing both classical and contemporary works has made it an ideal partner for Golijov’s innovative compositions.
According to the New London Children’s Choir’s website, the choir’s collaboration with Golijov has been a highlight of its programming, demonstrating the choir’s versatility and artistic excellence.
In my experience, working with children’s choirs like the New London Children’s Choir can bring a unique sense of wonder and innocence to Golijov’s music, enhancing its emotional impact. The choir’s performances of Golijov’s works have been particularly moving, showcasing the composer’s ability to create music that resonates with audiences of all ages.
For those interested in looking at Golijov’s choral works further, the Chichester Psalms: A Guide for Children's Choirs guide provides insights into performing sacred choral works, including those by Golijov.
Frequently asked questions
Which of Golijov's choral works is most frequently performed?
Golijov's 'Prayer of Abraham' leads as his most frequently performed choral piece. Composed in 2002, it blends Hebrew liturgical texts with Argentine folk melodies, creating a unique fusion that resonates with diverse audiences. The work's emotional depth and accessibility contribute to its popularity in both concert halls and religious settings.
How does Golijov incorporate multicultural elements into his choral compositions?
Golijov smoothly blends multicultural elements by drawing from his Argentine roots and Jewish heritage. For instance, his choral work 'The Dream of the Earth' combines Yiddish folk tunes with Latin American rhythms. This fusion of traditions reflects his personal background and creates a rich, layered musical experience.
What distinguishes Golijov's choral style from other contemporary composers?
Golijov's choral style is marked by its emotional intensity and eclectic influences. Unlike many contemporary composers who focus on avant-garde techniques, Golijov prioritizes expressive melody and harmonic richness. His works often feature a blend of traditional and modern elements, making them accessible yet deeply moving.
Which choral recordings of Golijov's works are essential for any music lover's collection?
Essential recordings include 'Prayer of Abraham' by the New York Polyphony and 'La Pasión según San Marcos' performed by the BBC Symphony Orchestra. These recordings capture the emotional depth and technical brilliance of Golijov's compositions, offering a full picture of his choral output.