Vocal Ensemble Spreading Holiday Cheer at DCA

Cantus. Photo by Curtis Johnson.

Traditionally a cantus (which is Latin for singing) is an activity organized by students during which they perform traditional songs about love, country and generally, drinking beer (the consumption of that beverage an integral part of the music making).

But Cantus, the nine-member male vocal ensemble from the Twin Cities, will bring the cheer without the beer when they present their “Voices of Christmas” program at the Door Community Auditorium (DCA) on Nov. 28.

Those who have been long-time supporters of DCA programming may remember the performance of the male vocal group Chanticleer. In a similar style, Cantus sings a cappella with a full spectrum of pitch and intriguing intricate harmonics.

The program coming to Fish Creek promises to combine words, stories and wisdom of people from all walks of life with music to awaken the holiday spirit, including old and new carols along with holiday favorites.

The ensemble is unique in that it is democratically group led, rather than guided by an artistic director. Cantus is nonprofit with full-time paid professional vocalists who perform on average 75 concerts throughout the United States every year.

In addition, the group has an educational mission, frequently serving as artists in residence for high schools and universities, and offering master classes, lecture demonstrations, and guided performances for colleges and communities.

But primarily Cantus’ goal is to entertain audiences. “Voices of Christmas” celebrates both the timeless tradition of holiday music and the musical heritage of men singing, whether Welsh coalminers, soldiers or university students.

Visit cantussings.org to learn more about Cantus, to read biographies of the vocalists, and to listen to a sampling of their music.

The group will perform at 7 pm on Saturday, Nov. 28 at the Door Community Auditorium, 3926 Hwy. 42 in Fish Creek. For tickets visit dcauditorium.org or call 920.868.2728.