Luc Anthonis – Belgium
Luc Anthonis studied at the Royal Flemish Conservatory of Music in Antwerp and specialized in choral conducting under renowned mentors such as Eric Ericson and Simon Halsey. Since 1980, he has led the youth choir Cantilene and in 1989 founded the vocal ensemble Cantando, with which he has premiered works by composers such as Vic Nees and Jan Van der Roost.
As guest conductor of the Flemish Radio Choir, he has worked on performances of pieces by Xenakis, Messiaen, and Verdi, among others. Since 2007, he has been a professor of choral conducting at the School of Arts in Antwerp, where he also coordinates several departments. In addition, he conducts the Symphonic Ensemble Ekeren. Anthonis is a sought-after jury member at choral competitions and represents Belgium in the World Choir Council.
László Nemes – Netherlands / Hungary
László Nemes is a renowned Hungarian choral conductor and music educator with strong ties to the Netherlands. He is an expert in the Kodály method and a highly sought-after teacher and conductor at international choral and conducting courses. As former director of the Kodály Institute in Kecskemét, he has contributed significantly to the global promotion of the Hungarian choral tradition. Nemes regularly serves as a jury member at international choral competitions and is known for his inspiring approach and profound musical insight.
Jan Schumacher – Germany
Jan Schumacher is a leading German conductor and music educator, specializing in choral and orchestral conducting. He is Professor of Choral Conducting at the Frankfurt University of Music and Performing Arts and leads several renowned choirs and ensembles. Schumacher is known for his innovative programming and versatile repertoire, ranging from classical choral music to contemporary works. As a highly sought-after jury member, workshop leader, and guest conductor, he is active on international stages and is dedicated to advancing choral culture worldwide.
During CantaRode 2025, he will also lead the workshop Meezing Project for choirs.
Virginia Bono – Argentina
Virginia Bono is a prominent Argentine choral conductor and music educator, known for her expertise in vocal music and choral development. She is the founder and artistic director of Estudio Coral Meridies, an ensemble internationally recognized for its refined sound and innovative programming. As a conductor, teacher, and jury member, Bono is actively involved in international choral festivals and competitions. She is dedicated to promoting Latin American choral music and has led masterclasses and workshops worldwide to strengthen the choral tradition.
During CantaRode 2025, she will lead the Youth Choir Clinic.
Lorenzo Donati – Italy
Lorenzo Donati is a renowned Italian choral conductor, composer, and violinist, known for his innovative approach to choral music. He conducts some of Italy’s most prestigious choirs and has won numerous international awards as both a conductor and composer. Donati is a professor of choral conducting and composition at several conservatories and is in high demand worldwide as a jury member, guest conductor, and workshop leader. With his passion for both early and contemporary choral music, he has made a lasting impact on the international choral scene.