The 12-man choral group Chanticleer formed in 1978 to perform overlooked medieval and Renaissance music. The members named the ensemble after a "clear-singing rooster" in Chaucer's "Canterbury Tales."
Since then, it's won two Grammys as its became one of the best known choral ensembles in the U.S.
Chanticleer recently visited the CPR Performance Studio before a Denver date on its fall concert tour. They performed a pair of 16th-century compositions that show off their signature sound.
"Ce ris plus doux," by French composer Anthoine de Bertrand, contains lyrics full of striking imagery about sweet honey and crimson lips.
Spanish composer Francisco Guerrero's "Surge, propera amica mea" is a meditation on springtime and renewal. "Flowers appear on the Earth," the group sings.
The footage shows why Chanticleer lives up to its name. Over the years, more than 100 singers have been part of the 12-man lineup, yet the ensemble's sonic identity -- its clear, powerful voice -- remains strong.
More exclusive music from the CPR Performance Studio:
- Cantus Sings Haunting Music By Ysaye Barnwell
- Anderson & Roe Piano Duo Plays Music by Gluck
- Cellist Jay Campbell Plays Bach In The CPR Performance Studio
- Boulder's Matthew Dane Blends Classical, Indian Sounds On The Viola D’Amore
- An Electric Performance by Boulder Bach Festival's 'Venice on Fire' Musicians
