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Swingle Singers

The Swingle Singers are an internationally renowned vocal ensemble, known for their innovative and virtuosic approach to a diverse range of musical genres, from classical to jazz, pop, and contemporary styles. The group was originally formed in Paris in 1962 by French conductor and arranger Jeanette Baucomont, and initially billed as Les Swingle Singers. They were established as a vocal group that specialized in performing instrumental classical music in an a cappella style, giving complex orchestral compositions a distinctive choral twist.

Early Years and Founding (1962-1969)

The Swingle Singers’ journey began when Baucomont, inspired by the need for a vocal ensemble to reinterpret classical music, gathered a group of talented singers to perform works by Johann Sebastian Bach, particularly his The Well-Tempered Clavier, which was transcribed and arranged by the iconic French jazz musician and composer Claude Barthélémy. Their first album, Les Swingle Singers, released in 1963, was a groundbreaking success, blending Bach’s intricate counterpoint with jazz improvisation, and received critical acclaim for its innovative approach.

The Swingle Singers' early work fused classical music with jazz elements, creating a unique sound characterized by vocal harmonies that mimicked instrumental parts. Their performances and recordings, such as Jazz Sébastien Bach (1963), became milestones in vocal ensemble performance, pushing the boundaries of both jazz and classical music. This creative vision earned them a Grammy Award in 1969 for Best Performance by a Vocal Group.

Growth and International Recognition (1970-1980)

Over the following years, the Swingle Singers continued to evolve, performing not only in Europe but also around the world, developing a distinctive sound that mixed various genres, including popular music. Their ability to adapt to diverse musical styles without losing their unique voice became their hallmark. The group also gained recognition for their collaborations with notable composers and arrangers, further cementing their place in the international music scene.

In the 1970s, the group experimented with a broader array of musical styles, including contemporary classical and avant-garde, as well as jazz and world music. The Swingle Singers became increasingly popular for their innovative arrangements of music by composers such as Stravinsky, Debussy, and Gershwin, as well as contemporary works by jazz greats like Duke Ellington and Thelonious Monk. Their albums from this period, including Swinging Bach (1974) and The Swingle Singers Sing the Music of Bach (1976), showcased their ever-expanding range and technical skill.

A Changing Lineup and Continued Success (1980-2000)

The Swingle Singers underwent several lineup changes throughout the 1980s and 1990s, with different singers joining the ensemble while maintaining the original group's commitment to musical excellence and innovation. Even as personnel shifted, the group retained its reputation for impeccable technique, precision, and artistry.

During this period, the Swingle Singers began to focus more on blending pop and jazz influences with classical and experimental elements. The result was a more contemporary sound that appealed to a wide range of listeners. Albums like Celebration (1987) and The Swingle Singers in Concert (1992) reflect this period of stylistic expansion and growth, with the ensemble branching out into more diverse repertoires, including their famous take on pop hits such as "The Beatles" and "The Beach Boys."

The Modern Era and Legacy (2000-Present)

In the 21st century, the Swingle Singers have continued to perform worldwide, maintaining their global reputation as one of the finest vocal ensembles in the world. Their repertoire has expanded even further to include arrangements of popular music, film scores, and new commissions from contemporary composers, showcasing their ability to blend genres and create a sound that is both contemporary and timeless.

In the mid-2000s, the group underwent another significant transformation, with the inclusion of younger singers and a renewed focus on both original compositions and contemporary arrangements. The Swingle Singers’ commitment to collaboration is evident in their recent projects, where they continue to work with composers, arrangers, and musicians from diverse genres, including classical, jazz, pop, and film music. Their releases from this era, such as The Swingle Singers: Vocal Sampler (2010) and Bach to the Future (2017), demonstrate their continued innovation and mastery of vocal harmonies.

Impact and Legacy

Over the course of more than six decades, the Swingle Singers have become a symbol of vocal excellence and versatility. Their extraordinary ability to traverse musical styles—classical, jazz, pop, world music, and more—has garnered them a devoted following among music lovers of all kinds. Their innovative approach to a cappella singing, often pushing the boundaries of what is possible with the human voice, has influenced generations of vocal ensembles and musicians.

The Swingle Singers' legacy is not only marked by their exceptional musical achievements but also by their continued relevance in the world of vocal music. Their numerous awards, including several Grammy nominations and wins, reflect their ongoing contribution to the musical world. Today, the ensemble is considered one of the finest vocal groups in history, known for their impeccable vocal technique, creative interpretations, and ability to make any genre their own.

Conclusion

From their humble beginnings as a French jazz-classical crossover ensemble to their status as a global vocal institution, the Swingle Singers have left an indelible mark on the world of music. Their work continues to inspire and challenge listeners and musicians alike, proving that the voice can transcend genre and become a powerful instrument of expression across musical boundaries. The Swingle Singers' legacy is a testament to the enduring power of vocal artistry and innovation.

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The Swingle Singers: Mood Swings

Read "Mood Swings" reviewed by Russell Moon

by Russell Moon
March 24, 2004

Ward Swingle is back. Swingle left The Double Six of Paris in 1963 to form his own vocal group, The Swingle Singers, which enjoyed success on both sides of the Atlantic. Forty years later, Swingle has assembled a group of eight (four women and four men) young and very talented singers to carry on.Mood Swings is 61 minutes of a cappella vocals. Although eight arrangers contribute (including Swingle six times) the style is consistent throughout the album, with ...