Cantus - MPR stairwell
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Minnesota Public Radio's headquarters can be found at the corner of Cedar and 7th, in downtown St. Paul. The vocal ensemble, Cantus has been to the building so many times, they can probably give you directions (alternate routes included).
Normally, the group takes the elevator up to meet with a DJ or record in the Maude Moon studio. They used a recent trip to really get to know the building.
As Classical MPR's artist in residence and participants in the Sonic Architecture series, the group was led down a back stairway for an impromptu performance. They performed Rachmaninoff's "Prediite, Poklonimsya" on the steps leading to the basement, then spread out over 5 floors for a couple improvisational exercises.
Paul Rudoi, who sings tenor in the group, was surprised at just how warm and clear the ensemble's voices sounded while surrounded by so much metal and concrete.
The Sonic Architecture series is an ongoing project for Cantus. If you have an interesting, non-traditional space you think they should sing in, let them know.
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