Chetham's School of Music

‘We are tied to the ocean. And when we go back to the sea, whether it is to sail or to watch – we are going back from whence we came.’ 

Kantos delves into the might and majesty of the deep blue sea, exploring its depths, unravelling its mysteries and succumbing to its power. 

The choir share traditional stories from the high waters with folksong and sea shanties as well as tragic tales of coastal communities where lives are lost at sea. The concert features George Herbert playing Benjamin Britten’s Four Sea Interludes, transcribed for organ by Anna Lapwood, and interspersed with Kristina Arakelyan’s Seascapes for choir. 

‘Their tone quality and tuning are remarkable, exemplifying the best mixed choir singing likely to be heard anywhere’ – The Arts Desk 

ABOUT KANTOS

Kantos is a trailblazing vocal ensemble, performing at the cutting edge of the creative scene. We produce vocal performances, shaped by the music and stories we believe in.

We think voices are a powerful gateway to our past, present and future, unveiling countless emotions, identities, and experiences. The doors to our performances are always open to everyone, whether you’re a veteran concertgoer or seeking something new.

Whether you join us in a factory space or a spiritual place, the concert hall or a nightclub, we’ll always deliver raw, stunning performances as the most ground-breaking, dynamic and creative vocal artists in the North.

Performing music by everyone from 11th Century visionary saints to genre-bending, experimental rock stars, Kantos prides itself on championing contemporary and well-known choral music. Commissioning and premiering new music is integral to Kantos; recent UK and international artist collaborations include Shruthi Rajasekar, Sadie Harrison, Rebecca Dale, Jack Sheen, Tim Benjamin, Chris Hutchings, Eleanor Cully Boehringer, Rory Wainwright-Johnston, Camden Reeves & Anna Disley-Simpson.

Alongside our self-promoted performances and tours across the UK, recent highlights include touring with Gary Numan & Skaparis Orchestra in the Royal Albert Hall, Bridgewater Hall and O2 Shepherd’s Bush Empire; recording for BBC Radio 4’s Sunday Worship, alongside Manchester-based poet Rachel Mann; recording with the BBC Philharmonic Orchestra for a Radio 3 drama production of Anthony Burgess’ ‘Oedipus’; recording with Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra; premiering Rebecca Dale’s Mater Requiem alongside a recording with record label Decca; an album release of contemporary Christmas carols for record label Prima Facie.