Release of "Priestess" and "Ushās: Goddess of Dawn"

Priestess and Ushās: Goddess of Dawn are out!

Corvus Consort (director: Freddie Crowley) commissioned me to write these two new works for upper voices and harp, premiered here on Chandos Records' "Welcome Joy" by harpist Louise Thomson and the sopranos and altos of Corvus. The entire album has been gorgeously recorded by all of the artists.

The image above links to the full album, which I highly recommend. You can listen to my two works here:

The Yorkshire Times published this lovely review of the album and this project:

"The Corvus Consort has turned its attention to a rich tapestry of choral music written specifically for women’s voices and harp. With a group of 12 upper voices, they excel in their ensemble blend and word clarity. Crowley has curated a programme of exquisite repertoire, encompassing a century's worth of music for upper voice and harp.

[Gustav] Holst taught himself Sanskrit, and there is a delightful nod to this with Indian composer Shruthi Rajasekar invited to compose for this programme in response to the Third Group of Gustav Holst’s Choral Hymns. Both Ushās—the Goddess of Dawn and Priestess—not only add exciting new repertoire for these unusual forces but also explore directly Holst’s engagement with ancient Hindu texts. The musical writing is captivating, especially the ‘rushing away’ end."

– Andrew Palmer

It was a pleasure to write with a focus on harp alongside the soprano & alto registers. Priestess and Ushās will be available to all choirs in 2025, with Priestess additionally available as an a cappella work.

Happy listening!

Shruthi