Founded in 1994, ensemble cantissimo is one of the most sought-after vocal ensembles in the German-speaking world. The name speaks for itself: cantissimo is synonymous with a cappella singing. And from the very beginning the group’s main interest has been in the incredible range of music beyond the mainstream repertoire. With its distinctive interpretations and exciting choice of programmes, the choir, with singers from Germany and Switzerland, conducted by Markus Utz, has thrilled audiences and critics alike. Regular invitations to leading music festivals and a close collaboration with radio stations reflect the high regard the ensemble’s vocal artistry is held in. Rarities of rediscovered choral music also feature on cantissimo’s numerous CD recordings. These include sacred works by Mozart’s teacher Giovanni Battista Martini (2007) and the Marian cycle Mater Dei by Freiburg composer Franz Philipp (2008) produced in collaboration with SWR. A co-production with BR, I Himmelen, with Scandinavian choral music was released in 2010. In 2011 Carus-Verlag Stuttgart engaged the ensemble for the first recording ofthe choral works of Heinrich von Herzogenberg, a contemporary of Brahms; this now comprises a representative selection of his works on three CDs.
