New York Polyphony, one of today's leading vocal ensembles, is known for its innovative programming, ranging from Gregorian chants to contemporary commissions. On Sky of my Heart, the selections span more than four hundred years of music history and are a testament to this vocal ensemble's commitment to discovering and developing new works that enrich its core early music repertoire. Some of the works performed here deal with the fundamental themes of life, death and the afterlife and are inspired by personal loss (Andrew Smith) or the impact of Covid restrictions (Paul Moravec). Others are imbued with a spiritual atmosphere, be it religious (William Byrd, Ivan Moody, John Tavener and Becky McGlade) or meditative (Akemi Naito). The contemporary works, some of which were commissioned by New York Polyphony, are firmly rooted in the rich history of Gregorian chant while featuring very contemporary harmonies. The vocal ensemble will be accompanied by LeStrange Viols in three pieces: "My Days" by Nico Muhly, a ritualistic tribute to the early 17th century English composer Orlando Gibbons, "The Silver Swan" by Gibbons himself, which brings the program to an appropriately quiet and poignant close, and Byrd's "Agnus Dei". The viol ensemble adds a facet that both suits Gibbons and is original in its sound.