Andrew Dixon | Collegian
On Saturday, Sept. 11 at 8 p.m., male vocal ensemble Cantus will return for its third performance at Hillsdale College, and its first in Christ Chapel.
On the morning of the concert at 11 a.m., Cantus will also offer a masterclass in Howard Music Hall for Hillsdale’s Chamber Choir, and all students are invited to watch.
Based in Minneapolis-St. Paul, Minnesota, Cantus is in its 27th season and performs both nationally and internationally. One of the few full-time vocal ensembles in the United States, the group has released seven albums featuring both original and classic works.
Cantus’ eight members — two basses, two baritones, and four tenors — will present their 2021-2022 touring season program, “My Journey Yours,” which reflects on the strife, perseverance, and metamorphoses of migration. The Hillsdale performance will also include a selection of sacred music to complement its church setting.
Hillsdale Music Department Chairman James Holleman has long anticipated this pairing of Christ Chapel’s acoustic warmth with Cantus’ choral virtuosity, he said. When he heard plans for Christ Chapel’s construction, Holleman decided he wanted Cantus to perform in the chapel.
According to Holleman, Cantus’ small size and virtuosity will make the concert experience unique.
“Their sound is really warm, really round, and crisp whether they’re singing a very familiar tune or something not so familiar,” said Nicholas Nestorka, adjunct professor of voice.
Holleman and Nestorak agree that particularly for Hillsdale’s music students, experiencing the craft of professional musicians is an invaluable gift that enlivens discuss. Ultimately, Holleman insists that all students stand to gain from attending Saturday’s performance, appreciating how Cantus “falls into the spirit on this campus [of] seeking beauty.”