God's Word is Our Heritage

Canticum Novum is a chamber choir that strives for excellence in proclaiming the name of Christ through the choral art and, through the work of the gospel, seeks to spur God’s people on toward excellence in their own musicianship. 

What sets Canticum Novum apart is its unique model: singers from WELS congregations across the Midwest and beyond rehearse independently for several months, then come together once each year for an intensive retreat week filled with rehearsals, fellowship, and performances. This condensed yet deeply collaborative format fosters a strong bond among members and results in spiritually moving, artistically refined concerts.

The ensemble was founded in 2005 following a meeting of musicians at the WELS National Conference on Worship, Music, and the Arts. Inspired to form a new kind of choir within the Wisconsin Synod, the founding members developed a framework that prioritized flexibility, skill, and a shared mission. Most early members were WELS educators, which led to a summer retreat schedule that could accommodate professional calendars while remaining open to singers from all walks of life. From the beginning, members were expected to have the training and discipline to learn advanced repertoire on their own, allowing precious rehearsal time to focus on musical nuance and ensemble unity.

Canticum Novum presented its first performances in the summer of 2006 under the direction of founder Mike Marquardt, singing during worship at Peace Lutheran Church in Hartford, Wisconsin, and Grace Lutheran Church in Milwaukee. The ensemble has since gathered each summer for its annual retreat and concert series, including featured appearances at the WELS National Conference on Worship, Music, and the Arts in 2008, 2014, 2017, and 2024.

Now under the artistic direction of Jonathan Laabs, the choir continues to grow in size, scope, and artistic vision. Programming has expanded to include large-scale choral works, commissioned pieces, and an increased online presence. As Canticum Novum moves forward, its mission remains unchanged: to glorify God through beautiful music and to encourage others in their own musical journeys of faith.