Comprising some of Hobart's finest choristers, Allegri Ensemble is a vibrant chamber choir dedicated to the musically sensitive performance of a wide range of choral music from the Western canon. Founded by Andrew Bainbridge in 2010 and directed by Dr. Jonathan Wallis since mid-2019, Allegri specialises in the authentic interpretation of early a cappella polyphony, while maintaining a commitment to the exploration of less frequently heard choral masterpieces from the mediaeval period through to the 21st century.
Recent performance highlights for 2023 include Joy and Lamentation, which explored some of the master works of Bach (Jesu, Meine Freude) & Tallis (Lamentations of Jeremiah), with guest artists the Pillinger Quartet and organist Ben Mackey, and Harmonies of the Divine, which saw the ensemble collaborating with Hobart Chamber Orchestra to present music by contemporary European composers Pӓrt and Vasks, along with Bach, Tallis and Fauré.
Allegri Ensemble was established as an Incorporated Organisation in 2016.
About our Director
Jonathan Wallis is one of Tasmania's leading choral conductors, with over 25 years experience in international choral performance and direction. As a singer Jonathan has frequently toured in Europe with internationally-renowned Australian ensembles such as The Choir of Ormond College, Ensemble Gombert, and featured in numerous recording projects.
While completing a PhD at the University of Cambridge, Jonathan was mentored by the legendary choral conductor Stephen Layton, while also performing and touring with Pembroke College Chapel Choir. Jonathan was also founding director of Cambridge University's Wren Choir.
Now living in Hobart and working as Senior Lecturer at the University of Tasmania, Jonathan has been a member of Tasmanian Symphony Orchestra Chorus, and has conducted numerous local ensembles, including the Loose Canon Chamber Singers and the Argyle Choir and Orchestra.
Jonathan has been Musical Director of Allegri Ensemble since 2019 and has established a well-regarded body of choral performance and exciting collaborations.