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Cantus Novus, a vocal chamber ensemble based in Bloomington, Illinois, was founded in 2001 to provide outstanding performance opportunities for distinguished community vocalists in Central Illinois.
The group has developed a notable reputation in the performance of a varied repertoire of sacred and secular works. The ensemble's ranks include several music educators as well as those with just a personal passion for music.
Cantus Novus is honored to be directed by Matt Davis. Here, in his own words, is information about his background and education:
"I grew up in a family that cherishes music, and we often sang together and in choirs. I have a lovely wife and five children, and we live near Colfax, IL, where we enjoy our dogs and chickens. I graduated from Limestone Community HS in 2002 and pursued studies and careers in business and IT before returning to ISU for a Voice Performance degree ('21). I'll finish my Master's in Music - Voice Performance and Master's in Music- Choral Conducting this spring [2023], and I'll start applying to doctoral programs for the fall 2024 academic year."
Our collaborative pianist Jo Lynn Robinson received a Bachelor’s degree in Music Ed and Master of Music in Piano Performance from Eastern Illinois University. Retired from 38 years in public education, 29 of those in Normal’s Unit 5 junior and senior high choirs, she then spent 10 years as a collaborative pianist for IWU’s Music Theatre program. An Illinois native, she resides in Normal, Illinois.