The Bridegroom was a project I conceived in 2012 when I heard the title track on a recording by Anonymous 4, a professional women’s ensemble from Europe. I was struck by the simple beauty in the work, and I set out to perform it with my Advanced Women’s Choir. We premiered the work in North America and Spain. Sadly, its composer, John Tavener, passed away right before our premieres, making our experience even more meaningful. Other recordings on this album come from various concerts over the previous two years including a featured session at the 2013 Tennessee State Music Educators Conference.