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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 Janna Peterson. Her formal music education includes a Bachelor of Arts in Vocal Performance from Anderson College, a double master’s degree in Vocal Performance and Choral Conducting from Illinois State University, and Music Ministry Certification from Garrett-Evangelical Theological Seminary. Janna has served as featured soloist and has sung lead and comprimario operatic roles throughout the Midwest. Twenty-nine years of professional choral directing experience reinforced her belief that choral music can change behaviors, usher in unity and understanding, and can even make changes in society. She continues to mentor young music directors, marveling again and again at the power of music. When not making music, Janna can be found spending time with her husband, tending to their garden beds, curling up with a book, and being creative in the kitchen.
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.