Joe Monteiro - Seven Last Words (Happenstance Singers)

Information

Composer: Joe Monteiro

1. Seven Last Words: I. Father, forgive them
2. Seven Last Words: II. Truly, I say to you
3. Seven Last Words: III. Woman, behold your son
4. Seven Last Words: IV. My God, why have you forsaken me?
5. Seven Last Words: V. I thirst
6. Seven Last Words: VI. It is finished
7. Seven Last Words: VII. Father, into your hands

Happenstance Singers

Matthew Swann, director

Date: 2026

Label: Ulysses Arts

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Scheduled for release on August 28, 2026, by Ulysses Arts, Monteiro: Choral Music presents a collection of sacred works performed by the Happenstance Singers under conductor Matthew Swann. Preceded by two introductory EPs, Limehouse Mass (2025) and Seven Last Words (2026), this full album bridges Anglican and Catholic choral traditions, blending expressive harmonies with liturgical practicality. The repertoire features emotional movements from Seven Last Words, the compact Limehouse Mass—composed for a London church—the lyrical lines of And Ruth Said, and a gentle reimagining of Away in a Manger, offering a profound, well-rounded exploration of Monteiro's liturgical craftsmanship.

Joe Monteiro, publishing under the name J.A. Monteiro, is an accomplished choral composer and arranger who serves as Director of Music at London's Church of Our Lady Immaculate & St Frederick. An alumnus of the University of Oxford, where he composed for the St Hugh’s College chapel choir, Monteiro's diverse output spans motets, mass settings, and hymn arrangements. His sacred works are prominently featured by the Ulysses Arts label, with releases including the Limehouse Mass in 2025 and two subsequent albums scheduled for 2026. Additionally, his organ composition, Ye Choirs of New Jerusalem, achieved recognition with a performance at Southwark Cathedral.

Formed in 2020 by director Matthew Swann alongside a circle of collaborative peers, the London-based Happenstance Singers are a premier ensemble recognized for their technical precision, expansive repertoire, and signature warmth of tone. The choir's diverse artistic portfolio spans multi-century traditions, featuring foundational masterworks such as Bach’s St John Passion, intricate 16th-century Flemish polyphony, and celebrated contemporary compositions. Known for unique venue choices, including popular performances at the Kernel Brewery Tap Room, the ensemble also maintains an active presence in liturgical music, singing regularly for services at the historic Westminster Abbey.

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