Chetham's School of Music

St George’s Singers with Mary Carewe and The Cottontail Orchestra

Duke Ellington’s Sacred Concert is a unique blend of jazz, choral music, gospel and blues, and taps into Ellington’s roots in African–American culture and his deep religious faith. The concert features the joyous sounds of St George’s Singers, together with some of the UK’s great jazz performers: the dynamic voice of Mary Carewe, and the creative talents of The Cottontail Orchestra. Described by Ellington himself as ‘the most important thing I have ever done’ the Sacred Concert is the musical expression of his faith, and is for anyone – jazz lovers, committed believers, choral music fans – who loves music and wants to ‘praise God and dance!’  

 About Mary Carewe

Mary Carewe is one of the most accomplished and versatile concert and recording artists in the UK.  She has sung around the world at venues such as Carnegie Hall, the Royal Albert Hall and Royal Festival Hall in concerts ranging from classic Hollywood and Broadway to Berlin cabaret and The Music of James Bond. Her recordings include jazz standards and ‘A Crush on You’ – 15 Gershwin songs specially arranged for her with the Swonderful Orchestra and pianist Philip Mayers. Her voice features on the classical chart topping CDs Adiemus: Songs of Sanctuary and Cantata Mundi by composer Karl Jenkins, and she regularly records movie soundtracks and theme tunes. 

 About The Cottontail Orchestra

The Cottontail Orchestra brings together some of the UK’s leading musicians, committed to bringing fresh artistry and boundless energy to the great music of Duke Ellington.  Drawn from a host of ensembles such as Manchester’s own Beats & Pieces Big Band and the Manchester Jazz Collective, to the Sid Lawrence Orchestra and countless touring shows, they are steeped in jazz history and authentic stylistic approach, using the original creative talent from within its ranks to bring new life to this wonderful music.