Helen Glavin biography |
Helen Glavin studied piano and singing at the Guildhall School of Music and Drama and is a composer, singer, pianist and lyricist. Her composing talents were developed writing music for theatre. She has written music for plays, concert, ballet and recorded 3 CDs. Her work includes the critically acclaimed opera of the children’s classic The Secret Garden which was nominated for the TMA/Martini award. Helen’s music is eclectic with influences of classical, sacred and world music, and her passion for dance.
Helen’s new exciting choral work is rooted in Sussex where Helen has lived for 12 years. Originally from Southern Ireland, she feels a strong connection to the surrounding mystical landscape of the South Downs.
The Phoenix Cantata
The Phoenix Cantata is inspired by our connection to the land, the elemental forces of fire and water and the timeless presence of the surrounding South Downs. Helen was originally inspired to create the Cantata by the people and legacy of the Phoenix Ironworks in Lewes, East Sussex. She is exploring myths and legends, oral histories, folk music and folklore of Sussex and beyond, and the Cantata story weaves the human with the mythic and themes such as war and the power of nature.
The Phoenix Cantata has been commissioned by Artemis Arts and it is being developed in partnership with Glyndebourne Opera Education.
It is a people’s Cantata involving community choirs, a children’s chorus, professional soloists and the specially created Everyman Ensemble group of male singers. The Cantata has already had a wonderful response from the community and people of all ages are taking part in choral workshops and excerpt performances led by the distinguished musical director John Hancorn. It is anticipated that over 120 singers will perform in the showcase performances as part of the Brighton Fringe Festival in May 2012!
Helen is still creating the Cantata and working towards a full staged production in Spring 2013.
For more about the cantata visit: