Contact:
Calla Whipp
Phone: 515-419-2124
Email: calla@civicmusic.org

CIVIC MUSIC ASSOCIATION PRESENTS “CANTUS: CAROLS OF OUR TIME”

(November 10, 2022) – Civic Music Association (CMA) will kick off the holiday season with low-voice ensemble Cantus at 7:30 PM on Friday, December 2, at Sheslow Auditorium.

Cantus, an eight-member vocal ensemble, is no stranger to the Midwest. Formed in 1995 at St. Olaf College in Minnesota, the group has charmed domestic and international audiences over the past 27 seasons with their “exalting finesse” and “expressive power” (The Washington Post). Exploring repertoire ranging from the Renaissance period all the way to 21st century commissioned pieces, Cantus is committed to expanding the works of vocal music literature.

Unlike other full-time vocal ensembles, Cantus distinguishes themselves by practicing without a conductor. Instead, they function as chamber musicians, each contributing to the artistic process of creating and performing their selections.

Prior to their Sheslow performance, Cantus will provide a once-in-a-lifetime experience for local choir students through CMA Studio. The group will work with an honors choir composed of 20 student vocalists from area high schools. These low-voice participants will be nominated by their directors to participate. Not only will members be able to attend workshops and masterclasses led by Cantus, they will also be featured during their concert.

“At CMA we believe that learning from today’s greatest musicians will help shape the musicians and engaged citizens of tomorrow,” says Linda Vanderpool, head of CMA’s Education Committee. “This should provide an inspiring musical memory for all those involved.”

Like CMA, Cantus has long been a supporter of local music education, working with over 5,000 students each year. Their work to mentor and further the development of young vocal ensembles has made an extensive impact on aspiring student musicians across the country.

With a mission to “give voice to shared human experiences (Cantus),” their special holiday performance is bound to unite audiences with moving renditions of holiday favorites, old and new.

Tickets are on sale now, starting at $35. Box office information for the concert can be found at civicmusic.org/experience/tickets.

About Civic Music Association:
Since 1925, Civic Music Association has delivered world-class musical performances to Des Moines. Their mission to “engage, enrich, and educate the central Iowa community,” connects Iowans of all ages and backgrounds through the uniting power of music.

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