The text for this piece about death and rebirth is an excerpt from the Exeter Book, an anthology of Anglo-Saxon poetry from the 10th century. It is set in the original Anglo Saxon language, maintaining the poem’s mysterious, magical feel. The choir narrates the story of the Fenix (phoenix in modern spelling), while a soprano soloist provides the voice of the Fenix herself, ideally from a balcony or other off-stage space where her voice can appear as if from nowhere.

Commissioned and premiered by the Rose Ensemble with funding provided by the Jerome Foundationand special support from the Schubert Club.