Artist Series: Cantus

Now in its 31st season, Cantus is recognized as one of the nation’s premier vocal ensembles, praised for its signature warmth, blend, and powerful storytelling through music. Known for innovative programming and riveting performances, Cantus moves audiences with repertoire that spans centuries, from the Renaissance to today. Performing without a conductor, Cantus works as a true chamber ensemble: each member has an equal voice in shaping every program. This collaborative spirit results in deeply human performances that explore connection, empathy, and shared experience. As The Washington Post notes, Cantus delivers music with “exalting finesse” and “spontaneous grace.” Based in Minneapolis, Cantus tours nationally and internationally, with appearances at Lincoln Center, the Kennedy Center, Tanglewood, and more. International engagements have taken the ensemble to Canada, Europe, South America, and Asia sharing their music and mission with global audiences. Cantus also offers all home concerts via streaming, connecting with audiences across all 50 states and over 16 countries. Cantus records with the UK-based Signum Classics label, with recent albums including Into the Light, Alone Together, and Fields of Wonder. A champion of new and underrepresented music for low voices, Cantus regularly commissions composers and publishes through the Cantus Choral Series in partnership with Graphite Publishing. In 2023, the group was honored with Chorus America’s Alice Parker Fund Award for its inclusive and authentic programming. Cantus also leads Collaborative Concerts, bringing together local choral communities to share the stage, exchange artistry, and build lasting musical connections. As a presenter, Cantus has hosted acclaimed ensembles including Chanticleer, The King’s Singers, Sweet Honey in the Rock, Canadian Brass, and many others—creating opportunities for Minnesota audiences to experience world-class vocal and instrumental music in conversation with Cantus’ own work. Education is central to Cantus’ mission. Each year, the ensemble reaches over 5,000 students through workshops, residencies, and festivals, including the acclaimed High School Mentorship Program, an annual Tenor Bass Festival, and the Cantus Composer Competition. Thanks to the generosity of our presenting sponsors, we are pleased to provide quality musical programming at no charge to the public. — Event Details: https://hub.houghton.edu/rsvp?id=383329