Nova Singers' History

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. In January 2005, Nova Singers gave one of the featured performances at the Wisconsin Choral Directors Association convention in Appleton, Wisconsin. 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, Zae Munn, Bruce Polay, and William Hawley.

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 twenty years ago, the number of performances each season has grown to include eight concerts in two separate subscription series—four in Galesburg and four in the Quad Cities.

Nova has six recordings available to the public. Our newest CD, There is no rose, features treasured Christmas pieces as well as the world premiere of Sleep, Holy Child, composed by Richard Horn especially for Nova Singers. Behold a Star features carols and songs for the holiday season. Come, Heart’s Delight includes a broad selection of familiar folk songs from around the world. Constellation: A Nova Collection, features Nova’s most loved songs from our first thirteen seasons. What Sweeter Music is another collection of Christmas songs, including Biebl’s popular Ave Maria.