Path of Miracles: A 21st-Century Conductor’s Guide to Joby Talbot’s Choral Masterpiece

Abstract

Joby Talbot’s Path of Miracles has established its place in the Western choral music canon, receiving numerous accolades from critics, audiences, and performers alike. The piece has been recorded by two of the world’s leading choral ensembles, Tenebrae conducted by Nigel Short, and Conspirare, conducted by Craig Hella Johnson. Despite the piece’s success, little has been written about Talbot or Path of Miracles in academic literature. Using primary sources, including interviews with Joby Talbot, Robert Dickinson, Gabriel Crouch, and numerous conductors, this dissertation fills in the knowledge gaps. The purpose of this document is to provide conductors a resource to assist their preparation for future performances of Path of Miracles. Of particular interest to conductors is the detailed analysis of the libretto, which illuminates the source material for many of Robert Dickinson’s references. Additionally, an International Phonetic Alphabet guide for the entire piece is included in the appendix of this document. The analysis chapters focus on the rhythmic and melodic cells found throughout Path of Miracles which comprise the structural foundation of the work. Elements of Talbot’s instrumental background are highlighted, particularly how Path of Miracles emulates a symphonic structure. Practical considerations for performing Path of Miracles are presented, helping conductors navigate the many logistical elements required to present this piece in concert. These practical and artistic insights come not just from this author but from many notable conductors who have performed this masterpiece. Finally, the concept of audience engagement is discussed, and notable performances of Path of Miracles are presented, including more traditional concert performances, intricate interdisciplinary programs, and excerpted movements from the piece. These examples are meant to inspire conductors as they develop their own artistic vision for performing Path of Miracles. Path of Miracles is one of the first choral masterpieces of the 21st century. One of the reasons for its success is the extra-musical elements, such as staging directions, included in the score. Just as Path of Miracles seeks to break the expectations of what choral music can be, this document seeks to expand upon a traditional conductor’s guide.