Cantus

== About Cantus == Cantus is a distinguished low-voice ensemble based in New York, celebrated for its signature warmth and blend, as well as its innovative programming and captivating performances that span musical periods from the Renaissance to contemporary compositions. The ensemble has garnered praise from notable publications, with The Washington Post lauding its "exalting finesse and expressive power," and The Philadelphia Inquirer describing the group as "nothing short of exquisite." Operating as one of the few full-time vocal ensembles in the United States, Cantus has achieved prominence through a unique approach to music-making. The group functions without a conductor, and its members engage in the artistic process as chamber musicians, each contributing to the creation of programs that resonate with shared human experiences. This collaborative ethos has been recognized by the Star Tribune, which highlighted the "sheer quality" and firm belief in the power of vocal music to enrich the human spirit, which is a defining characteristic of the Cantus sound. Cantus maintains a robust schedule that includes national and international tours, as well as home concerts in Minneapolis-St. Paul, Minnesota. The ensemble has graced stages at prestigious venues such as Lincoln Center, Kennedy Center, UCLA, San Francisco Performances, Tanglewood, and the Bravo Vail Valley Music Festival. In response to the pandemic, Cantus expanded its reach by making home concerts available online, allowing audiences from 50 states and ten countries to enjoy their performances. For the 2023-24 season, Cantus presents "Brave," a thought-provoking program that explores the concept of masculinity in today's society, featuring works by composers ranging from Fanny Mendelssohn to Sara Bareilles, as well as contemporary talents like Mari Esabel Valverde and Sydney Guillaume, and a new piece by Griffin Candey. Cantus' discography is extensive, with recordings on the UK-based Signum Classics label, including popular titles such as "Into the Light," "COVID-19 Sessions," and "Manifesto," which features world premiere recordings by various composers. The ensemble also has a significant collection of recordings on its own label. Dedicated to expanding the vocal music repertoire, Cantus actively commissions new works and revives seldom-performed pieces for low voices. The group has received support from organizations such as New Music USA, the National Endowment for the Arts, Chorus America, American Composers Forum, and Chamber Music America. The Cantus Choral Series, in partnership with composer Timothy C. Takach and Graphite Publishing, distributes the ensemble's arrangements and compositions for wider performance. Cantus has collaborated with several esteemed arts organizations, including the Minnesota Orchestra, Saint Paul Chamber Orchestra, the Boston Pops, Chanticleer, and others. The ensemble is a fixture on classical public radio and SiriusXM Satellite Radio, with an upcoming collaboration with the Canadian Brass slated for 2024. == Mission & Vision == Cantus is dedicated to giving voice to shared human experiences, inspiring audiences through song and word, and fostering empathy and understanding. As a non-profit with a collaborative ethos, Cantus ensures that each member contributes equally to the concert curation and production process, reflecting a diversity of experiences. The organization's vision aligns with its mission to introduce audiences to less familiar music and ideas, promoting empathy and understanding of the world. == Education and Outreach == Education is a cornerstone of Cantus' mission. The ensemble interacts with over 5,000 students annually through masterclasses and workshops nationwide. In Minnesota, the High School Residency program, now in its 14th year, has reached 31 high schools. Cantus also hosts a Young and Emerging Composers’ Competition to encourage new compositions, offering cash prizes, performances, recordings, and potential publication of winning works. == Financial Information == For details on Cantus' financials, interested parties are directed to contact the Interim Executive Director, Bob Peskin. The organization provides transparency through the publication of its annual audits and IRS Form 990s, which are available upon request. == Media Partnership == Cantus has established media partnerships to further its reach and share its musical endeavors with a wider audience.