London’s Calling

The King’s Counterpoint includes 20 core vocalists.

Since 2014, The King’s Counterpoint, a professional a cappella vocal ensemble, has been making a joyful noise in houses of worship including downtown’s St. Philip’s Church and West Ashley’s Old St. Andrew’s Parish Church. Music director David Acres, who previously worked with similar ensembles in his native England, cofounded the group with his wife, Judith Acres, Ph.D., a Charleston-born sopranowho is The King’s Counterpoint’s executive artistic director.

Throughout the year, they share early, sacred music—particularly rarely performed works by European and English composers—plus secular and modern songs, for local listeners. But from August 6 to 18, they’re taking the show on the road; The King’s Counterpoint was selected to serve as choir-in-residence at two of the United Kingdom’s most famous churches, Canterbury Cathedral and Westminster Abbey.

“It’s a wonderful opportunity to bring American composers there,” says David, who plans to present Southern spirituals during these sought-after residencies. “We really feel like we’re representing Charleston.”

To cover expenses, the nonprofit group has launched a fundraising campaign. Learn more—and look for a performance schedule—at thekingscounterpoint.com.