Cantus

Recognized as the "premier men's vocal ensemble in the United States" by Fanfare, Cantus enjoys a vigorous schedule of national tours, subscription concerts in its home of Minneapolis and Saint Paul, educational outreach programs, and recording. The Washington Post hails the ensemble's sound as having both "exalting finesse" and "expressive power," and refers to their music-making as "spontaneous grace." The ensemble is known for adventurous programming spanning many periods and genres including chant, Renaissance music, contemporary works, art song, folk, spirituals, world music, and pop. Hometown heroes, the group consistently sells out performances in the Twin Cities, and was named "best classical musician" by the Minneapolis weekly City Pages. In recent seasons, Cantus has seen increased touring throughout North America, ranging from Alaska to Florida and Maine to California. Their numerous recordings have garnered critical acclaim from Stereophile, Gramophone, Classics Today, and National Public Radio. The ensemble's eponymous 2007 recording Cantus was named one of NPR's 10 best that year.

Cantus is an active proponent of music education, encouraging people of all ages—especially men—to sing. The ensemble annually works with over 10,000 young people throughout the US in educational activities ranging from masterclasses to festivals and collaborations. In addition to this work, Cantus is pleased to work with students from Minnesota schools through its Cantus in Residence program. The group was honored to receive the 2011 Chorus America Education Outreach Award, presented to ensembles that exemplify the true spirit of good education outreach efforts.