True to its DNA (Nova & Antiqua), Novantiqua explores a wide range of styles, from Renaissance polyphony to contemporary works. In recent seasons, it has notably highlighted:
- The motets of J.S. Bach, in which vocal virtuosity blends with spiritual intensity.
- Poulenc’s Mass in G, a moving blend of fervour and modernity.
- A unique programme centred on the Pater noster, weaving a dialogue between composers of the past and present.
- Tomas Luis de Victoria’s *Officium defunctorum*, a work of the highest calibre which is now regarded as a pinnacle of music from the Spanish Golden Age: the *Siglo de Oro*.
Whilst excelling in a cappella singing, the choir does not shy away from large-scale orchestral works, collaborating regularly with prestigious ensembles such as the Lausanne Chamber Orchestra, the Orchestre de la Suisse Romande and the Ensemble La Fenice de Paris.
The quality and originality of its performances have earned Novantiqua numerous awards, including:
- The City of Sion Cultural Prize (1987)
- First Prize at the Rome International Music Competition (1995)
- The Valais State Award of Distinction (2003)
With more than fifteen recordings to its name and a regular presence at Swiss and international festivals, the Novantiqua Choir of Sion continues to breathe new life into the art of choral singing, offering its audience moments of pure emotion and vocal excellence.
Founded in 1980 and led for 42 years by its founder, Bernard Héritier, the choir has been conducted by Sylvain Jacquard since 2022.
It gives around ten concerts each year in Valais and elsewhere, with several programmes running in parallel.
Since its inception, the choir has recorded 15 CDs, some of which have won awards.
