Voices
The Oxford Gargoyles (UK)
Posted on September 4, 2014 at 9:02 am
The Oxford Gargoyles are Oxford University's internationally renowned jazz a cappella ensemble. The group's stellar mix of black-tie class, charm, and impeccable musicality has delighted audiences far and wide, and with toe-tapping jazz standards and grooving funk tunes, the Gargoyles possess a distinct style that has set them apart on the international stage.
“Delectably light-voiced, well blended style... Charm personified.”
—Richard Morrison, The Times (2011)
The Gargoyles were founded sixteen years ago and have toured in Europe, the United States, and Asia. They have had nine consecutive runs at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival, each year performing to sold-out audiences and rave reviews. With a distinct blend of choral backgrounds from Anglican hymns to American be-bop charts, the Gargoyles’ repertoire combines the best of both sides of the Atlantic.
“Scintillating harmonies, swinging rhythms and superb showmanship.”
—Craig Revel Horwood, BBC Strictly Come Dancing judge (2012)
In 2007 the Gargoyles won the European category of the International Championship of Collegiate A Cappella (ICCA), and competed in the finals at New York’s Lincoln Center. The group also won the Voice Festival UK competition in 2010 and recently became Open Category Winners of the BBC Choir of the Year competition in 2012, starring in the final, which was broadcast on BBC television.
“The Gargoyles craft their a cappella sets like the best consort groups craft Bach; with meticulous attention to detail and an overwhelming love for their art. They are a stunning group who everyone should go and hear.”
—Greg Beardsell, Musical Director of the Irish Youth Choir, Deputy Artistic Director of the National Youth Choirs of Great Britain, artistic director of The Ulster Youth Choir (2013)
The Gargoyles have also performed with Grammy-winning professional vocal groups, including the Real Group and the Swingle Singers. The Gargoyles have produced 13 full-length albums to date, and their most recent CD, Tonehenge, was released in Spring 2014.
“The Oxford Gargoyles sell-out performance offers the perfect a cappella experience; blending pitch perfect harmonies with a minor comedic undercurrent to ensure all types of fans are catered to.”
—Edfestmag.com (2013)