C. Ellis Reyes Montes

Ellis Reyes Montes is a musician, researcher, and writer specializing in historical performance. He performs on bassoon, recorders, voice, and indigenous instruments such as the quena, collaborating with groups including Ursa Major Ensemble, L’Harmonie des Saisons, and Bach Society Houston. Of Latin American Indigenous descent and heir to four generations of Peruvian musicians, Ellis explores the musical traditions of the Americas with sensitivity and depth.

A doctoral student in musicology at McGill University, he works under Professor Julie Cumming on Peruvian colonial music and historical European improvisation. His work has been featured internationally and recognized with awards such as the Schulich Research Alive Prize, an FRQSC doctoral scholarship, and the RIdIM Young Scholars Encouragement Award. As a composer, his sacred works have been performed at events such as the 81st General Convention of the Episcopal Church.

Ellis also shares his passion beyond the stage. His writing appears in Church Publishing and Forward Movement, and he crafts handmade drums and beaded jewelry. He enjoys caring for his plants—a balance of grounding, creation, and contemplation, much like his music.