Christian Forshaw and the Sanctuary Ensemble

Event information

The Sanctuary Ensemble was founded by composer and saxophonist Christian Forshaw in 2003 as a platform to explore the ecclesiastical sound world he knew as a chorister.
The ensemble was propelled into the public eye following the release of their debut CD “Sanctuary” in 2004, after which they received almost daily airplay on national radio and number 1 positions in both the UK and New Zealand Classical Charts.
Following the success of “Sanctuary” Forshaw was offered a multi album deal with Sony BMG, but chose instead to remain independent and in 2007 formed Integra Records, releasing “Renouncement” in April 2007 and “Midwinter” in December 2008.
In 2009 Christian was commissioned to write a piece for the opening of the Hyde Park Memorial to the 7/7 bombing victims; an event attended by the HRH Prince Charles and the British Prime Minister, and was televised internationally.
In July 2012 the ensemble released a 4th disc, “Songs of Solace” which takes its inspiration from Julie Nicholson’s book “A Song For Jenny” (Harper Collins). The book very powerfully details the events around the 7th July London bombings in 2005 in which Julie’s
daughter Jenny was tragically killed. The disc contains works commissioned by Julie Nicholson and text written by her and sourced from the book.
In their work away from the Sanctuary Ensemble all four of the musicians enjoy careers working at the highest level as both soloists and ensemble members. The ensemble also features Alex mason, Shrewsbury's own Chapel Choir Master and wonderful organist.