The 1986 inauguration of Nova Singers was the result of the tireless efforts of Dr. Laura Lane and a core of founding members from across western Illinois and eastern Iowa who shared her interest in the formation of a professional choral ensemble. Expressive virtuosity, professional excellence and community outreach have remained salient features of the Nova Singers organization.
The ensemble has performed at state, regional and national conventions of the American Choral Directors Association (ACDA) and throughout the Midwest. Nova’s efforts have been rewarded with grants from the Illinois Arts Council, the National Endowment for the Arts, and numerous corporations.
Nova Singers has developed a devout following alongside a reputation for highly praised performance and exceptional programming. Drawing from a wealth of tradition while consistently looking to the present for the finest compositions available, a Nova Singers concert reflects excellence across a broad spectrum of history and style. From Byrd to Brahms to Arvo Pärt, versatility and flexibility have been hallmarks of the organization. Their uniqueness is frequently demonstrated in Nova Singers’ world premieres of commissions from composers such as Ruth Watson Henderson, Thea Musgrave, Bruce Polay, William Hawley, and Daniel Godsil.
Nova Singers’ strength is evidenced in its season subscribers who come from western Illinois, eastern Iowa, and as far away as Chicago. Since its inception in 1986, the number of performances each season has grown to include six concerts in two separate subscription series—three our in Galesburg and three in the Quad Cities.
Nova has recorded nine CDs. Five Christmas recordings, Stars, Mystery and Light, Behold a Star, What Sweeter Music, There Is No Rose and Mid-Winter feature songs for the holiday season. Steal Away is a collection of American folk songs and spirituals. Come, Heart’s Delight includes familiar folk songs from around the world. Constellation: A Nova Collection features the most loved songs from our first thirteen seasons.
Contact Business Manager Darla Krejci at 309-341-7038 or email nova@knox.edu for more information on Nova Singers.
Address any mail correspondence to:
Nova Singers
PO Box 1302
Galesburg, IL, 61402
