About Cantores Sanctis Diebus
Origins
Cantores Sanctis Diebus (CSD) began its journey in December 1977, when six adventurous young singers, united by their love of Tudor polyphony, gathered to perform Byrd’s 3-part mass in St Martin’s Church, Salisbury. Five of them were already members of the church choir, and the experience was so joyful that they decided to do it all again the following Easter. That’s when Nick Hale was invited to become director—a role he’s embraced with passion and vision ever since.
Name & Early Years
With many of the original members at university, the group’s name—Latin for “singers for the Holy day” or “holiday”—reflected their spirit of celebration and camaraderie. After several years of memorable performances in St Martin’s, CSD began to share their music in churches across Wiltshire. Thanks to Nick Hale’s connections to Jávea (Xàbia) in Valencia, Spain, the choir soon found itself singing on Spanish soil twice a year—a tradition that continues to this day.
Our Music & Community
CSD specializes in the vibrant, intricate world of Tudor and Spanish Renaissance unaccompanied polyphony. Over the years, hundreds of singers—both young and mature—have joined the choir, each bringing their own energy and talent. No two concerts are ever quite the same, but every performance is fun, challenging, and deeply inspiring. With only limited rehearsal time before each concert, CSD singers are accomplished sight readers, rising to the challenge with enthusiasm. The enduring magic of this choir is thanks not only to Nick Hale’s leadership, but also to the shared desire to sing at the highest level while never losing sight of the sheer joy and companionship that music brings.
Previous Events
- Charity concerts in the Costa Blanca region, Spain (biannual tours since 2010)
- Performances at Church of Our Lady of Loreto, Xàbia
- Hermitage of Pòpul, Xàbia
- Church of Benimaurell, Vall de Laguar
- Cumbre del Sol Theater
Concerts are typically scheduled in February and September/October, aligning with our biannual tours.