By Reg Huston

There’s a new vocal ensemble in town, ladies and gentlemen, and it is called Cantus Chamber Singers Monterey. Formed in 2007, this ensemble of twelve singers has been steadily gaining momentum and audience approval through its variety of performance styles, clarity of sound and solid ensemble balance and blend.

The Cantus performance on Thursday, January 28, at Colton Hall was entitled “An American Experience.” The singers under the direction of Robert Ramon presented songs from American composers and arrangers with 19 selections from traditional, to spirituals, to folk songs, to jazz. It was a fine range of styles and, although the vast majority of the songs were on the slower side, they were performed with sensitivity and fine intent.

It is also worth mentioning that this ensemble is not settling for easy tonalities and simple arrangements even in their more traditional songs. There was plenty of strong musicianship shown as they tackled difficult, close harmonies and tangled rhythmic textures.

Rather than critique each of the pieces performed (although my favorites of the evening were “Steal Away,” “Dog Tick,” “Fever” and the finale, “America the Beautiful”), what needs to be said is that these singers possess the makings of a first-rate small choral ensemble which can handle the repertoire slated for such a group. It is sorely needed in our area and you should keep track of its calendar.

SOAPBOX:  Check this out: the proceeds from the Cantus Chamber Singers Monterey’s concerts go toward furthering choral music on the Monterey Peninsula and Salinas community through charitable grants to local programs. They sing so that others can sing!

Reg Huston has been a concert soloist and has performed leading roles in opera and musical theater throughout the greater Monterey Peninsula for over thirty years.

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