J A Monteiro - Choral Music (Happenstance Singers)

Information

Composer: J A Monteiro

1. Seven Last Words: III. Woman, behold your son
2. Seven Last Words: VII. Father, into your hands
3. Seven Last Words: II. Truly, I say to you
4. Seven Last Words: IV. My God, why have you forsaken me?
5. Seven Last Words: VI. It is finished
6. Away in a manger
7. Limehouse Mass: I. Kyrie
8. Limehouse Mass: II. Sanctus
9. Limehouse Mass: III. Agnus Dei
10. And Ruth said

Happenstance Singers

Matthew Swann, director

Date: 2026

Label: Ulysses Arts

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On August 28, 2026, Ulysses Arts released J A Monteiro Choral Music (UA260071), performed by the Happenstance Singers under the direction of Matthew Swann. Rooted in Catholic and Anglican traditions, the album features sacred works by J A Monteiro that blend rich harmonic expression with liturgical practicality. Central to the collection are movements from Seven Last Words, capturing the emotional depth of Christ's final statements on the cross. The program also highlights the Limehouse Mass, composed for London's Church of Our Lady Immaculate & St Frederick, alongside the expansive lyrical setting And Ruth Said and a tender arrangement of Away in a Manger.

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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