2008.html Groups
National Finals | Current Schedule | Our National Champions | Historical Events | Judges | Directors | Search
Recordings | Groups | Goals | Rules | How to enter | Contact Us | About Us | Publicity Photos Boston | Chicago | Los Angeles | New York | Pacific North West | San Francisco | Mid Atlantic (DC)Groups By Region
Boston | Chicago | Rocky Mountain | Los Angeles | New York | Pacific North West | San Francisco | Mid Atlantic (DC)
Bay Area
 | Redshift
Redshift is a 7 member vocal group based in the Bay Area, California. We've been entertaining people for ten years with a wide repertoire, featuring everything from alternative rock to Weird Al. We sing at various public and private events throughout the Bay Area, at schools, bookstores, coffee shops, and community centers. Members: Anne Stern, Brian Heffner, Fraser Tan, Grant Hughes, Liz Brimhall, Stephen Nelson, Mike Barrientos   |
 | TonicEffect
TonicEffect is a group of five talented musicians and truly gifted drinkers who transcend traditional a cappella roles to deliver an unexpected, exciting performance. Our modern, edgy music - including original mash-up arrangements, shared lead vocals, and rotating vocal percussion - brings a new energy to the Bay Area a cappella scene. Members: Syreeta Mussante, Colm Davis, Jennifer Exley, Glenn Shope, Brian Arao |
 | Curious Blend
Curious Blend is two guys and two gals who refuse to be limited to one musical orientation. If we like it, we sing it! A Curious Blend performance is like tapas - tasty bites of different musical flavors. Our repertoire spans 12th to 21st centuries, with songs in seven languages. We are known for our tight harmonies, varied musical stylings, smooth blend, and spot-on humor. From Manhattan Transfer to medieval Iceland, from Claude Debussy to Gene Puerling, from an Irish lament to a rollicking parody - it's all part of an evening with Curious Blend! Members: Angie Boyce, Barbara Kaplan, Mike Pogue, Craig Rosen, Randi Zuckerberg |
 | Flying Without Instruments
Flying Without Instruments, also known as FWI (pronounced "fwee"), a quirky and versatile ensemble, is now in its 18th year. FWI mounts its own concerts in San Francisco and the East Bay and has also sung at private parties, weddings, halfway houses, and religious services, and has performed twice in the regional Harmony Sweeps competition. FWI's repertoire ranges from the ridiculous to the sublime, from the elegant to the uproarious. According to the non-profit group Bread & Roses, FWI's shows are "well-paced, moving nimbly from the sacred to the profane, keeping it interesting and entertaining every step of the way." Members: Stacey Oziel, Melissa Leventon, Cynthia Lohr, Caia Brookes, Greg Campbell, Greg Tinfow, Charles Seagrave, Gareth Loy |
 | The Richter Scales
The Richter Scales are a bevy of gentlemen songsters, all residents of the San Francisco Bay Area. They perform selections from a wide variety of genres, including American standards, Broadway, Motown, and contemporary music.. Formed originally as a band of semi-organized scavengers in the wreckage of the San Francisco Earthquake of 1906, the "Richter Scabs" (as they were then known) didn't actually "sing a cappella" until the Fall of 2000. The intervening period, known as "The Lost Years" by current group members, was filled with raucous enterprises involving menial labor and incarceration. Most of those "tall tales" are, unfortunately, wholly inappropriate for these pages.. Members: Dan McQuigg, David Mister, Mark Casey, John Davi, Brian M. Rosen, Jason Hunter, Curtis C. Chen, Ephraim Swanson-Dusenbury |
 | Sweet Deliverance
Sweet Deliverance has been singing Christian a cappella for over 30 years. Members have changed over the years but the tradition of tight harmonies and praise to our Lord has not. This semi-professional group is based in the San Francisco bay area and tours primarily in California. Originally, Sweet Deliverance began in 1976 at Oklahoma Christian by 4 young men, one of whom was Kevin Allsup. Kevin, the group's originator, grew up in Manteca, California, where they became based. Their newest member is David's younger brother, Stephen Morgan. Both David and Stephen have an extensive singing background, as they have been singing a cappella music in their own family group for many years. Now, with six men and a new recording, they are lifting their voices for God's glory, in full force. Looking back, it is obvious that God has seen them through good times and bad, and they know that it is He who has given them the voices to praise Him. They continue to offer Him their lives, their songs, and their voices for the encouragement and the uplifting of Christ's church. Members: Bob Alsup, Kevin Percival, Ken McAlpin, David Morgan, Steve Morgan, Gary Ferguson  |
 | The Irrationals / The Rat Trio
No, nothing to do with the Rat Pack, but Frank, Dean, and Sammy ain’t got nothin’ on us! The Rat Trio was born out of the need for intelligent music without the burden of making sense. Aficionados of a fine non-sequitur, we’re the Minute Rice of the a cappella set. By all accounts, Gwen ‘What the Hell was I Thinking?’ McElwee is damn good. She prefers to be referred to as “Diva,” but will respond to “Hey you!” Which is fortunate, since she’s still searching for the real singer inside of her. Sam ‘It Sounded Like a Good Idea at the Time’ Rogers is also known as The One Mouth Band. Forging new ground in a cappella music, Sam was the first solo act to compete against groups, and due to U.S. rules, had to go to Europe to do so. Not that he’s bitter or anything – he won stuff. Dr. Tim ‘Brutally Optimistic but Not All There’ Lukaszewski prefers to sing songs about love gone bad. His mind is made up…but the rest of him is real. Members: Gwen McElwee, Sam Rogers, Tim Lukazewski |
 | UnderAge
Underage is a group of four young ladies (ages 17-20) singing a cappella 4-part harmony, mostly in the barbershop style. They have been working and performing together for five years. Each girl is an accomplished vocalist in her own right, thus making their sound strong, full and mature. In July of 2005, in Greenville, South Carolina they won the highest honor for women under 25 years of age in the Sweet Adelines Organization, that of Young Women in Harmony International Champions. Members: Brittany Gilmore, Mia Dessenberger, Caitlin Smith, Stephanie Lawson |
 | Where’s Gesualdo
Where’s Gesualdo is an a cappella quartet based in the San Francisco Bay Area. Its members have performed and / or recorded Andy Williams, Bobby McFerrin, Chanticleer, Dave Gruisin, David Grisman, Don Shelton, John Williams, Jose Feliciano, Mark Murphy, Michael Tilson Thomas, Phil Mattson, Richie Cole, Stanley Jordan, and Frank Zappa, among others. They've also sung on video games such as Guitar Hero, Karaoke Revolution, Dance Dance Revolution, and Garage Band. Members: Moorea Dickason, Kathleen Hollingsworth, Paul Kim, Stephen Saxon |
Boston
 | Syncopation
The Boston Globe calls Syncopation "the 21st Century Manhattan Transfer or Lambert, Hendricks and Ross" and it is easy to see why. Like those legendary vocal groups, Syncopation performs jazz and pop music in four-part harmony with a style that is both timeless and up-to-the-minute. As an added treat each of the singers also plays an instrument or two like trumpet, trombone piano and percussion providing the excitement of a band much larger in size. You may have seen Syncopation on WBZ-TV singing with the Boston Pops on their 4th of July Fireworks Spectacular (2009). The group often performs with instrumental accompaniment of piano, bass and drums, but they are equally renowned for their a cappella singing, which has earned them regional and national awards from Harmony Sweepstakes. Members: Aubrey Logan, Christine Fawson, David Thorne Scott, Tsunenori “Lee” Abe |
 | Fretless
Fretless made its debut in June of 1999 at the First Parish Unitarian Church in Bedford, MA. In 2004, we competed at the Eastern Regional Harmony Sweepstakes at Tufts University's Cohen Auditorium, winning third place. In 2005, we produced our first CD entitled "All the Things We Are". Fretless weaves the soprano, alto, tenor, baritone and bass voices of five accomplished performers into a tapestry of lush harmonies and fascinating lyrics. Our repertoire includes an adventurous mix of lively pop songs, Broadway classics, demanding classical works, and off-beat selections from the great American songbook. Members: Vicki Righettini, soprano, Sue Wellington, alto, David Getty, tenor, Matt Etttore, baritone, Charlie Hodges, bass |
 | Overboard
Founded in the spring of 2006 by current director Nicholas Girard, Overboard is a male a cappella group from Boston, MA. Although Overboard's repertoire consists primarily of contemporary pop/rock songs, including covers from such artists as Rascall Flatts, Stevie Wonder and The Beatles, the group remains true to its a cappella roots and continues to perform classic selections such as "Blue Moon," "In The Still of the Night" and "Stand By Me." First conceived as a street performance group intent on entertaining audiences around coastal New England during the summer months, Overboard has come a long way in a short time. The group's first album, Shipwrecked, was recorded in Nick's living room and was released during that first summer. Shipwrecked was distributed during frequent busking stops in Newburyport, MA; Freeport, ME and Burlington, VT, as well as around the group's hometown of Boston. Members: Nick Girard, Ryan Sterling, Gary Gustavsen, Josh Koelker, Dave Plante, Jeff Alderson, Scott Cobban, Joe Barbato  |
 | 5-Alone
The idea of 5-Alone was conceived in the fall of 1999. I approached four students about starting a jazz a cappella quintet with myself as the fifth member. Encouraged by the succss of our first performance, we continued singing throughout the spring and debuted officially as 5-Alone at the Iron Horse in June, 2000. Now 5-Alone is an accredited performing arts class at PVPA. We've come a long way from the days of rehearsing at lunch and after school. 5-Alone has gained a considerable amount of attention in a very short time. Awards and honors have been piling up from DownBeat Magazine, C.A.S.A., A-Capella.com, The National Harmony Sweepstakes, R.A.R.B., Primarily A Cappella, Berklee College of Music, and the I.A.J.E. 5-Alone has performed all over the world, including New York, California, and The Netherlands, and has turned the world of high school a cappella upside down. Members: Kimaya Diggs, Maisie Dolan, Harpo Jaeger, Andrew Lederman, Dylan Makowski, Rose O'Connell-Marion, Daniel Plimpton, Rose Whitcomb-Detmold |
 | Boston Accent Quartet
Boston Accent just can't seem to get enough of singing together, so they are members of Sweet Adelines International and Harmony, Incorporated - two international organizations of female barbershop singers. In November 2006, BA won the coveted gold medal at Harmony, Inc's International competition in Jacksonville Florida! In May of 2010, 2012 and 2013 they won first place in the Sweet Adelines North Atlantic Regional competition and competed internationally in Honolulu, HI. Their CD, CROWNED AND DANGEROUS, has been hailed as a "vocal symphony with an ACCENT on fun and entertainment". Members: Ruth Berman, Cheryl Brusket, Julie Jeffery, Karen Rourke |
 | Relative Ring
Relative Ring - Hailing from four distant corners of Maine, Relative Ring is comprised of two cousins, both former chorus directors, and two sisters, all Sweet Adeline members. They are thrilled to be fulfilling a life-long dream of singing together and sharing their love of traditional barbershop music. Members: Deborah Arenberg, Barbara Hynes, Sherry Sprague, Wendi Bailey |
 | Undertone
Undertone is a semi-professional, co-ed group based out of the Boston area. Since starting out in 2004, the seven dynamic and experienced members of Undertone have solidified their melodic arranging style, precise harmonies, and intricate vocal percussion. Their high-powered and eclectic repertoire integrates styles of pop, rock, jazz, blues, and funk. These songs include hits from the 70's through today. Learn more about Undertone at www.undertoneboston.com and keep your eye out for their new CD! Members: Dave Blauch, Rebecca Blum, Niel Francisco, Ehsan Iraniparast, Amanda Mercier, Mary Hunt, Eric Tjonahen |
Chicago
 | Vocal Chaos
Vocal Chaos is an award-winning a cappella group from right here in Chicago! They have been making incredible music all over the Windy City since 1996, from Soldier Field and Cellular Field to Chicago Public Radio. They can also be heard singing a cappella in the Jennifer Aniston/Vince Vaughn movie "The Break Up". To foster collaboration and promote the art form of a cappella, they founded ACappellaFest, which in its eighth year has grown into the Midwest's largest a cappella festival. Vocal Chaos is thrilled to be back at the Harmony Sweepstakes. Look for their new EP to drop later this year! Members: Anthony Roberts, Tim Gallagher, Jeff Swearingen, Jordan Stoner, Karl Solis, Mike Svacha, Zachary Watts, Don Callahan |
 | An Octave Above
An Octave Above is a group of eight professional vocalists who blend years of experience and a love of a cappella harmony to every style of music they sing. From doo-wop to jazz, standards to pop, Bacharach to The Beatles, An Octave Above creates a new standard for excellence on the Chicago music scene. Also members of prestigious Chicago-area choral ensembles including the Chicago Symphony Chorus, An Octave Above members hold degrees from Elmhurst College, Northern Illinois University, Bradley University, University of Illinois at Champaign, Western Michigan and the University of Miami. Members: Jennifer Gingrich,, Meredith McGuire, Melinda Voss, Debra Wilder, Chris Moan, Nick Falco, Lamont Lambert, Kris Monn |
 | 5one
5one is an up-and-coming pop/rock a cappella group consisting of five male Millikin University music students. Established in April, 2006, 5one accepted an offer to entertain tourists at Navy Pier in Chicago, IL that following summer. Since then, 5one has astounded audiences and encouraged musicians in the Chicagoland metropolitan area. Winners of the 2008 Chicago Rgional of the Harmony Sweepstakes A Cappella Festival. Currently based in Decatur, IL, 5one has released their first album, "Get It" through their own student-run record label at Millikin. Members: Shane Irvin, David Kempton, Brian Parrish, Jesse Upah, Tony Marx |
 | Fiveplay
Fiveplay, Chicago's 2005 Midwest Harmony Sweepstakes Champions, is not your typical vocal group. In a world where musical trends change on a weekly basis, Fiveplay's style is timeless and enduring. With fresh interpretations of the standards of yesterday, classic arrangements of the hits of today and their own critically-acclaimed original compositions, Fiveplay demonstrates stunning versatility and razor-sharp precision with every song. Their diverse repertoire is virtually a 20th century songbook, covering everything from Sinatra to The Temptations to The Beatles and U2. More than simply a musical showcase, Fiveplay's refined choreography and unique brand of humor will entertain audiences of all ages. Members: Aaron Siedband, Brian Siedband, Dave Wagner, David Reeder, Cody Whitlock, Kyle Smith |
 | In Vox
In Vox began in November of 2004 singing in a basement and calling themselves Underground Sound. Over the next three years, the group would see itself grow into being one of Chicago's premier a cappella forces. With hip arrangements of songs in every genre and a growing original repertoire, InVox has been seen at small venues like house/block parties or holiday caroling at local nursing homes, as well as large venues such as Six Flags: Great America and Navy Pier! From February to May of 2007, and still under the name "Underground Sound," the group recorded their debut demo CD at MasterWerkz Studios. In the next few months, the group decided to re-vamp their sound and change the name to InVox. InVox can be described as a tall, traditional a cappella latte with a shot of Jazzy choral flavor and a big side of hotness! Get ready to be Invoxicated! Members: Holly Bowen, Lindsay Liden, Lisa Akey, Emily Smith, Ben Fergeson, Alex Juarez, John Magana, Sean P. Gorecki |
 | Last Minute Quartet
Last Minute is a successful Sweet Adelines a cappella quartet and has been singing and competing together for 3 1/2 years. They have sung in many different venues including the Acuff Theater at Opryland and numerous college campuses across the nation. Last Minute is currently the 2nd place international Young Women in Harmony winners and regionally placed 5th overall, and plans on only going up from there. Not only do they enjoy competition, but they are mostly passionate about entertaining any audience. Last Minute shares a zeal for barbershop as well as gospel, jazz, and competemporary music, and love to sing whenever they get a chance. They love to sing together, even though most of their practice time is laughing at each others silliness. They are the best of friends and they couldn't ask for anything better. Members: Deidra Ekins - Lead, Rebecca Box - Baritone, Sherida Rowsell - Bass, Erica Kawano - Tenor |
 | MAUF
MAUF - An audience always expects from a music show an extraordinary mixture of several kinds of uniqueness. MAUF provides that in fascination, joy and music. MAUF captivates mostly through their live music using solely three microphones. Each of these microphones are used differently. The three elements are singing, beatboxing and creating sounds. This leads to an direct, authentic, lively mix of pop music, Techno, RnB, HipHop and World Music – not to forget fun and delight. MAUF have their qualities and have been recognizied all over the world. They have been very successful within the last 12 months and won 9 contests in Switzerland, Germany and Austria like the Austrian Band Contest 2006. Members: Verena, Fii, Christal |
 | Spirit’s Harmony
Spirit's Harmony is a Christian quartet from North Avenue, 100 miles west of Chicago, in Oregon IL. They bring a new twist to Gospel music. Their common thread is they all attended the same school (in different generations). Ranging from mid 30’s to mid 50’s, Jamey, Patrick, Bill and Greg sing about 40 times a year. Engagements take them to both large and small churches throughout Illinois, Wisconsin and even other countries like Iowa. Their sound brings the word of the Lord in an upbeat fashion. You’ve heard of Southern Gospel-- they’re not it. Crossing many styles, you may hear traditional, Jamaican, Doo-Wop, Celtic, Gospel and Contemporary all in one performance. Spirit’s Harmony’s goal is to sing praises to the Lord and bring joy to people’s hearts. Members: Pat Huston, Jamey Young, Greg Tremble, Bill Suneson |
Los Angeles
 | Down 4 The Count
Down 4 The Count began in 2003, when six CSU Northridge students in the University's vocal jazz ensemble found they shared a common interest: wanting to sing ensemble vocal jazz without those pesky instrumentalists: in other words, A Cappella! Since that time, Down 4 The Count has won multiple awards (including three song-arrangement awards and 1st place at the 2009 San Diego A Cappella Competition) and they have performed at venues all over the greater Los Angeles and San Diego area, including the Jazz Bakery, The Coach House, The Coffee Gallery Backstage, San Diego IndieFest, and many more. Members: Matt Reynolds, Andreas Preponis, Colleen Keene, Francesca Delfin Preponis, Genevieve Artadi |
 | SoundStage
SoundStage constantly impresses audiences both at home and abroad with their tight, unexpected harmonies and passionate delivery. Founded in 2006, their 2008 win of the LA Regional Harmony sweepstakes has catapulted them to appear on ABC's "The View" as well as a touring headline performance for the 2009 International Contemporary A Cappella Festival in Taipei, Taiwan. Their consistent jazz sensibility (with an infusion of funk) has taken them from shopping malls, to professional sporting events, to international conferences, to high school auditoriums, to county fairs, and local churches, where they have been described as "the white, suburban step-child of Take 6 and Earth, Wind, and Fire." Members: Jammie Hann (Soprano), Kim Reed (Alto), Bradley Hampton (Tenor I), Andy Cummins (Tenor II), Kyle Bowen (VP/Baritone), Johnny Davis Figueroa (Bass) |
 | Collectively Kenny
Collectively Kenny - is the name of the group (or so Colleen's 3-year-old figured when he started announcing the arrival of each member of the group as 'KENNY!!') Timing is everything and that's what finally brought CK together. The group is made up of some old, some new vocal collaborations to put a fresh new spin on this perfect a cappella alliance. You may have heard these songs before but you haven't heard 'em like this! Members: Colleen Cowley, Dalyn Sale-Whaley, Carolyn Leenerts, Jay Welch, Kenny Kurtz |
 | Renaissance
Renaissance - is an all a cappella quintet, dedicated to showcasing and preserving the critical art form of street corner style; doo-wop singing. The group is equally adaptable to film, TV & stage as they are beneath the street lamp. Not just another singing group, Renaissance intertwines social and cultural awareness themes in their music offering "food for the spirit" as well as the soul. Whether it's a soul stirring tribute to the legendary Sam Cooke, love songs for the ladies, Black History themed conscious music or a rousing Gospel celebration, their superb vocal skills shine through. These Cats can flat out sing and their infectious energy is quite entertaining as they transport their audience to another space and time. Members: Maurice Kitchen, Torre Brannon, Kwame Alexander, Anthony Snead , Charles (Sonny) Banks |
 | Swingshift
Swingshift - This stylish vocal jazz group was formed in Santa Monica in 2002. Swing Shift draws on a variety of sources: from swing tunes to Broadway, from groove to folk, from Latin to contemporary. All of these styles inform the group’s sound and character. The group is lucky to count three accomplished arrangers among its members. Phil Azelton’s work is widely sung in jazz and school ensembles, and his ballads are much-admired for their lush harmonies. Founder Richard Gilinsky contributes many of the group’s current repertoire, ranging from up-tempo swing to reharmonized folk and show tunes. One of the newest members, Michael Kohl, has demonstrated his considerable talent as an up-and-coming vocal jazz arranger. Swing Shift will entertain you with swinging groove pieces embodying scat solos to show off the group’s versatility. They will lull you with rich, warm ballads. They will surprise you with unexpected turns of phrase and rich and surprising chord progressions. Swing Shift loves to sing, and hopes to share its vocal joy with all who care to listen. Members: Tyler Azelton, Jessica Freedman, Katharine Hoye, Michael Kohl, Phil Azelton, Richard Gilinsky |
 | Trojan Men
Trojan Men - Formed in January 2005, The Trojan Men are the first and only all-male a cappella ensemble at the University of Southern California. The group has garnered awards and accolades, and in their short history, they have established themselves as a USC tradition. In December 2007, they became the first group in USC history to host a solo concert in USC's Bovard Auditorium. But, let's face it, their favorite thing to do is get caught by campus police trying to wake up sorority houses in the wee hours of the morning. Their debut studio album will soon be available at www.thetrojanmen.com. Members: Tien Nguyen, Evan Bregman, Jared Scheib, Eitan Nir, Mario Sawaya, Rob Ellis, Todd Levin, Kevin Ikuta |
 | Vocal Magic
Vocal Magic has been entertaining audiences since before the turn of the century. Their smooth vocal jazz style is inspired by groups such as Manhattan Transfer, the P.M. Singers, the Real Group, and Happy Jackson & the Quintessentials. The group is always scouring the globe for unique and interesting performance opportunities. Some of their favorites include music & arts festivals, park concerts, and Area 51 (CLASSIFIED). In a quest to promote the art of a cappella singing, Vocal Magic hosts "Javapella"- A monthly showcase of a cappella music in Orange County. Mix mirth with a cup of java, and add a sprinkle of magic- that's Vocal Magic! Members: Glenn Phillip Wanke, Gabriella Rollins, Willem Van der Pol, Linda Cicino, Ariana Attie |
 | What Four!
What Four! - One of the newest foursomes in the Verdugo Hills stable of talented quartets, What Four! has quickly established themselves as popular entertainers, having already appeared at numerous community events, country clubs, local businesses and private parties. The group is made up of four talented ladies who collectively have a wealth of experience in singing & a cappella music. Members: Susan Smith, Catherine Peters, Dee Cardello, Ellen Totleben |
Mid-Atlantic
 | Cartoon Johnny
Cartoon Johnny is an energetic vocal band that pushes the limits of traditional a cappella. Drawing on influences from classic soul to modern alternative, they've crafted an exciting sound that is often mistaken for an instrumental band - but it's all vocal. Based in the Washington DC area, Cartoon Johnny performs a variety of sure-fire audience favorites and their own original music, bringing audiences to their feet show after show. They are two-time National Harmony Sweepstakes finalsists, winning the title for the Mid-Atlantic Region in 2005, and in New York in 2009. Cartoon Johnny has shared the stage with some of the best in a cappella and beyond. Highlights include headlining ACappellaFest Detroit in 2010, and performing with Marvin Hamlisch in his Christmas special at the Kennedy Center in 2008. Hamlisch invited the group to join him for his July 4th concerts in San Diego in 2009. Members: Kieran Daly, Kevin Dixon, Ben Feeney, Mike Henrickson, Darcy Romano, Malcolm Lee |
 | Vocaldente
The press is unanimous: vocaldente's "singing technique is professional", their "verve is phenomenal", and they're "sparkling with imagination". Critics say they offer a "high level in singing performance", with their "funny spoken interludes" and "imaginative, passionate choreography" - and that they're known for the "professionalism in their performance": Onstage they're "fitting and harmonic", "witty and fresh", "charming and professional" ...simply "harmonic, funny and good with a refreshing naturalness." But vocaldente have also impressed on the international stage, convincing jurors from all areas of vocal and a cappella music, from classical style to voice pop, such as John Potter (former The Hilliard Ensemble member), Ward Swingle (founder of The Swingle Singers) and Anders Jalkeus (The Real Group). The quintet have prevailed at the biggest and most significant national and international vocal and a cappella competitions in Asia, Europe and the United States. Members: Tobias Kiel, Ansgar Pfeiffer, Niklas Turmann, Johannes Gruber, Tobias Wunschik  |
 | DOWNTOWN
DOWNTOWN was created out of the Harmony Brigade movement in the Barbershop Harmony Society. They sing a wide variety of uptunes and ballads ranging from classic barbershop, swing, and doo-wop, to show tunes and jazz numbers. Members: Drew Fuller, Frank Fedarko, Kevin Flynn, Mike Stoll |
 | Euphonism
Euphonism is a Washington, DC based vocal band composed of four men and three women with diverse musical backgrounds - including theater, jazz, classical music, barbershop and chorus - who share a passion or the pure, electrifying blending of voice. Members of Euphonism bring a mixture of angelic harmonies, driving beats and moving rhythms to audiences in the capital area and beyond. Members: Amanda Aldag, Gillian Sowray, Lindsay Hower Jordan, Jason Sam, Joe Kang, Guy Divita, John Baer |
 | Skyline
No genre is safe...,"Using state-of-the-art technology and style, Skyline will leave you wondering where the "band" is. Why? Skyline uses only the human voice for every sound you hear. No genre is safe. You want rock, you got it. You want classical, you got it. You want it, they've got it. If you've got it, they want it." Members: Chris Wong, Marco Ovando, Eric Pilar, Derick Eng, Hugh Gee |
 | Stu-dio Singers
The Stu-dio Singers (formerly known as The Pelicans) are Maryland's most fun a cappella group. They are a sextet drawn from a group of singers based in Laurel, MD, who enjoy performing various styles of music. They launched the group during a summer production of The Music Man in 2005. They had such a good time singing barbershop that they have been harmonizing ever since. Genres include songs of faith and inspiration, show tunes, swing, standards and doo-wop. Members: Kathryn Binney, Erika Cogliani, Kirby Forssell, Heather Heaps, Jocelyn Knazik, Stu Knazik |
 | Tonic and Gin
Tonic & Gin - In the spring of 2004, a group of musicians-at-heart gathered together in the hopes of creating a new, fresh mix of voices. What evolved from that first meeting was a collection of six singers ready to take on the DC a cappella scene. Rehearsals began, gigs presented themselves, and the group began to mesh. After endless discussions about what to call ourselves it finally hit us ‚ Tonic & Gin!Today, Tonic & Gin continues on as a vibrant co-ed group of seven members dedicated to sharing a wide variety of music with intriguing arrangements, amazing soloists, and a whole lot of fun! Members: Nate Pipke, Ben Keller, Bruce Shim, Mati Makagon, Stephanie Wu, Marissa Hogdkins, Alison Torrillo French |
 | Top of the Seventh
Top of the Seventh is a Washington DC-based vocal group that specializes in tight harmonies and takes on styles that range from jazz to spiritual, from barbershop to rock and pop, in pursuit of fun and musical nirvana! Members: Marty Brennan, Jim Connaughton, Rob Ginsberg, Clay Kaufman, Bert Ifill, Elliot Roseman, Dave Welter |
 | Venus d Minor
We have been together for about 15 years; performing a wide variety of styles including jazz, pop, folk, classical, and novelty songs. We specialize in original lyrics set to familiar tunes. Members: Betsy Erickson, Jenny Nordstrom, Patti Gaston, Amy DeLouise, Dolores McDonagh, Beth Brummel, Robin Sloan, Kristin Bass |
New York
 | Six13
Six-man vocal band Six13 brings an unprecedented style of Jewish music to the stage. With songs that range from hip-hop dance tracks to rock anthems, their albums have been the recipients of five Contemporary A Cappella Recording Awards and selections to nine different "best of" compilations. This summer, they were chosen as finalists in the casting process for NBC's prime-time series The Sing-Off, and the group has also become an internet sensation, with over 500,000 views on YouTube. Members: Mike Boxer, Moshe Cohn, Yan Frenkel, Josh Mohrer, Justin Rosenblum, Alan Zeitlin |
 | 'Round Midnight
'Round Midnight is an award-winning "a cappella" quartet of music educators from the Long Island/Manhattan area of New York. While they sing primarily in the barbershop style, their eclectic influences range from jazz to classical and everything in between. The group is a two-time Semi-Finalist in the Barbershop Harmony Society's (BHS) International Barbershop Quartet Contest and they are also the BHS 2010 Mid-Atlantic District Quartet Champions. In addition, the foursome won the New York City Harmony Sweepstakes Championship and was bestowed with the coveted "Audience Favorite" award by overwhelming crowd vote. The quartet has received praise for their self-titled debut recording too, receiving a Contemporary A Cappella Recording Award (CARA) nomination in the category of "Best Barbershop Song" for their rendition of "Try A Little Tenderness". 'Round Midnight has been featured in an array of showcases, contests, and educational workshops spanning the United States from New York to California. Members: Larry Bomback, T.J. Carollo, Wayne Grimmer, Jeff Glemboski |
 | Classic Sounds
Classic Sounds are a five member a cappella ensemble that hails from the Bronx and Westchester Counties of New York. Formed in 2002, their diverse backgrounds is what gives flavor to their renditions of the music that is called Doo Wop. Influenced by The Platters, Etta James, and other great performers of the 1950's, their mission is to keep a cappella, as an art form, alive and well. They spend much of their time teaching young children the art of a cappella singing and have been honored to serve as the opening act for Johnny Maestro & the Brooklyn Bridge, The Cadillacs, The Chanels, and other greats of the era. If you close your eyes and think back to Murray the K, the Brooklyn Paramount, the street lights on Belmont Avenue, the boulevards of Bensonhurst, straphanging from a leather strap on your way to see "Dem Bums", Frankie, Dion, WMCA Good Guys, cruising the streets in a '56 Chevy with the windows cranked down, singing to the tunes on your portable AM radio, and a host of other good times, you’ll know why “The Classic Sounds” sing DooWop. That's why a surgeon, a plumber, two teachers, and a musician can lean in close to each other, sing those back-up sounds that are second nature to us all, give you a little hand jive and a smile, and make you remember what "feel good" music is all about. Members: Gabriel Dassa, Alan Fennell, Julie Seda, Lou Valentino, Bob Seda |
 | Cut Time
Cut Time is the newest crop of killer singers skimmed off the top of the world's jazz capital. Combining astounding vocal talents with zippy-fresh 'in-house' arrangements (as well as steroids). Cut Time aspires to take the world by storm and, establish their place among the world's finest musical performers, (including Britney Spears, Wing and William Hung) Members: Lehho Rebassoo, John McMahon, Craig Eckhardt, Melissa Munn, Gwenivere Mann |
 | DoubleShot!
Since 2006, the guys have blended traditional and contemporary all- vocal music with energy and humor to create six decades of hits live on stage at every show. Every sound - vocals, bass, effects, even the drums - is created using only the voice. They have performed all over their native Pittsburgh, and nationwide from Washington, D.C. to the San Francisco Bay, as well as features on local news, television, and radio. In the Harmony Sweepstakes, they were Mid-Atlantic Champions and Audience Favorite in 2007 and have received two awards for Best Arrangement. Members: Michael Bodnar, Luke Clavey, Eric Manalo, Nate Wildfire, Dave Wilson, Mike Yanchak |
 | L5
L5, based in Long Island, NY, is a group of guys who enjoy what they do and are not afraid to take on a different song or arrangement because it wasn't done in a cappella before. Many of their contemporaries, other groups their age, were doing 50's or 60's doo wop, which L5 loves, but wanted to move away from. They have a great appreciation for the Motown era, and want to take audiences back to that soulful period of music. With fun and camaraderie, hard work and dedication, L5 puts forth a sound of R&B, Motown, and pop that does both justice to the groups they admire (i.e. The Temptations, The Persuasions, etc...) and the a cappella art form. Members: Lou Comito, Steve Manno, Tony Petito, Ron Simmons, Ray Millan |
 | The Newyorkettes
The Newyorkettes are the all female a Cappella Beauty-Shop Quartet", singing songs from the 1940s, 1950s and 1960s. They have been paying tribute to The Andrews Sisters, The Shangri-las, and The Ronnettes since the group was formed in 2005. Complete with a vintage look and choreography, they have performed in countless clubs and private parties in NY City, including Times Squre Studios for Walt Disney's Annual Awards Ceremenoy. They were invited to perform the pre-game show for Military Appreciation Day for the The New York Mets at Shea Stadium last July. They are very excited to perform at this year's Harmony Sweepstakes! Members: Julie Castro, Shannon Rolbeicki, Evelyn Troester, Anita Reyes |
 | Red No. 5
Red No. 5 has been causing a sensation in Connecticut's local music scene. Moving audiences with skillfully tight a cappella harmonies and dynamic performances, the four young women of Red No. 5 have lent their voices to reinvigorate and diversify their home state's musical community. While each woman in the quartet resonates as an individual, the four voices fuse together to create breathtaking harmonies and produce a truly original sound. Red No. 5's self-arranged four-part interpretations are rooted in their creative and unconventional understanding of music. Their eclectic repertoire spans all genres, from folk to soul, reflecting a particular enthusiasm for contemporary a cappella compositions. Red No. 5 looks forward to sharing their music with wider audiences, and is enthusiastic to participate in this year's harmony Sweepstakes. Members: Brie Johnston, Sumitra Ratneshwar, Mary Kate Sitarz, Kristin Yates |
 | Undercover
Undercover is a group of 4 men and 3 ladies who love nothing more than to step away from their day jobs every now and then and perform for their fans! After joining the NYC a cappella scene in 2006, they've been having a blast singing at venues big and small, for audiences of all ages. Their harmonies are tight, their drum riffs are catchy, and their diverse repertoire of pop/rock songs is sure to please. At the 2007 Harmony Sweepstakes NY Regional competition, the group won 2nd Place and also took home Best Arrangement honors for their infamous 80's Medley. They're excited to return to Harmony and perform alongside this new batch of great groups!" Members: James Trani, Nick Fox, Jen Nycz, Rob Corradi, Di Zhang, Kelly Goggins, Juli Weiner |
 | Vocal Heights
Vocal Heights is an eight member, co-ed, New York a cappella group with an eclectic style, performing a wide range of music from the 60's, all the way to the 2000's. With a repertoire that is predominantly rock and pop, We also like to mix it up with some doo-wop, jazzy standards, blue grass, non-secular selections, and even the occasional madrigal thrown in for good measure! While predominantly using original arrangements of covers we are psyched to now have several original songs in our repertoire as well. Our mission is simple: to put on a great show with great music! Members: Andrea Au, Ken Brady, Laura Dunn, Mindy Gordon, Susan Jeffers, Lauren Kuczala, Erik Levitt, Jim Longo |
Pacific Northwest
 | Rezonate
The premiere a cappella group from the Willamette Valley, Oregon, the gentlemen of Rezonate sing R&B, Gospel, Pop, Soul, Jazz, Funk, and even some Hard Rock, including deftly arranged covers and original songs. The group started singing together as Rezonate in December 2004, and have sung at many venues since. At the Harmony Sweepstakes National Finals in May of 2009, Rezonate won both Third Place and the coveted award for Best Original Arrangement. With thick, lush, true six and seven part harmonies and a difficulty level second to none, Rezonate can evoke the smooth sounds of the Four Freshman, the Funk flavor of Rare Earth, or the pop excitement of acts like Bruno Mars and Kelly Clarkson. Members: Aaron Matthew, Chris Dobson, David Fertal, Jason Caffarella, Tyson Biggerstaff, Justin Diller |
 | Vocalocity
Vocalocity is a seasoned six man vocal band. Ryan Brierley, Jason Tesch, Trevor Linton, James Case, Scott Rollins, and Jake Tesch have filled their lives with music since they were young, and have been performing together as a group since 2005. They have banded together to produce a compelling a cappella performance for audiences of all ages. As part of their show, they have selected popular songs such as I Wear My Sunglasses at Night by Corey Hart, Everything by Michael Buble, Accidentally In Love by Counting Crows, and a special Beach Boys Medley. These and other songs have been professionally arranged by award winning musician, Derek Furch, to give them a unique and distinctive sound. With their goal set on winning the National Harmony Sweepstakes Championship, watch out for Vocalocity to take the a cappella world by storm. Members: Jason Tech, Jake Tesch, James Case, Ryan Brierly, Trevor Linton, Scott Rollins |
 | A Toast of the Town
A Toast of the Town consists of two men and two women who perform a mix of (mostly) acappella music. Their perlformances are highly entertaining and encourage audience participatin. A Toa sot the Town perofmrs a varietyt of musical styles including Manhattan Transfer style jazz, Doo-wop favorites from the 50s, Broadway showstoppers, patriotic songs, and nostalgic tunes from the early 20th century. They have experience singing for a variety of occasions and the fresh blend of nostalgic and current music is sure to be an audience pleaser. Members: Kelly Hughes, Karen Murphy, Lyle Johnson, Ron Fisher |
 | The Akafellas
The Akafellas are from Olympia and have been together since 1997. One of our first Harmony Sweepstakes appearances was in n1999 where we won 2nd place as well as best original arrangement. In years since, we’ve returned a few times and some members have come and gone.. and come back again. We are still having a great time and looking forward to making more, fun music together for many years to come. We still love singing all kids of music from Doo-wop to Pop to Rock to Country to everything in between. We are all every excited about getting to perform with all of the great groups at Harmony Sweepstakes again. Members: Jon Morgan, Kurt Fralick, Jon Murdock, Tony Benjamins, Michi Imamura |
 | The Baudboys
Back around 1990, a couple of the founding members of the coed Microtones decided that they wanted to form a men's a cappella group at Microsoft so that they could sing the charts from their college groups. The original quartet consisted John Rae-Grant, bass and musical director, Bill Pope, baritone, Bob Gunderson, 2nd tenor, and David Olsen, 1st tenor. True to their profession, the group's chosen name, The Baudboys, referred to the method by which modem speeds were rated. The group performed only a few times in its first years of existence, doing lunch time gigs on the Microsoft campus. As members left Microsoft over the years, they would also leave the Baudboys, prompting natural turnover in the membership. During the 1990's, the group expanded it's membership, aiming to have two full quartets within the group. Since that time, the group has remained at 7-9 members, but the expanded membership has allowed the group to sing more complex arrangements than the 4-part charts that the founders envisioned. Members: Jon Schwartz, Ric Lewis, Graham Sheldon, Owen Braun, Elliot Lewis, Mark Adolph, Dave McEwen , Paul Eng |
 | V-Chords
V-Chords is an a cappella vocal band made up of six talented performers who truly enjoy helping the world connect with contemporary music in an exciting way. They perform a wide variety of pop, rock, jazz, gospel and country accompanied by live vocal percussion. Each member has significant performing experience and contributes to the combined flare and flavor for which V-Chords has become known. V-Chords has roots as far back as 2001 when Jeremy, Chris and Mike sang together in Pendleton, Oregon with Second Chance Singers. After relocating to Portland several years later, they formed V-Chords by joining forces with Bryan, Dave and Josh. They have performed throughout the region and are looking forward to many wonderful venues in the coming year. In 2007, V-Chords was proud to represent the Pacific Northwest Region at the National Harmony Sweepstakes Competition in San Rafael, CA. Members: Jeremy Miller, Chris Moore, Bryan Podwys, Dave Edwards, Mike Telfer, Josh Killingsworth |
Rocky Mountain
 | Plumbers of Rome
Plumbers of Rome - While serving as court musicians & crepe chefs for Charles VII in the 13th century (though not allowed to serve as Royal Plumbers since plumbing was at that time considered to be a form of witchcraft), the Plumbers of Rome invented a device to hurl food and concert T-shirts into the starving peasant section of the King's Concert Hall. Adapted for military use, and named the Trebuchet, this invention led the French army to many victories, as well adding to the festive atmosphere of Renaissance Festivals. While not remembered by name, they are honored in the traditional French carol "ballade de l'arme romaine aimée de plombier". Members: Michael Hanna, Peter Driscoll, Tim Y. Jones |
 | Nexus Quartet
Nexus Quartet - 2004 Rocky Mountain District Champions in the Barbershop Harmony Society, 2005 and 2006 international competitor, and now ranked as one of the top quartets in the world, NeXus continues to grow in popularity. Presenting a wide variety of a cappella music, including Barbershop, Jazz, Contemporary, Gospel, and more, the group's entertaining shows are filled with great harmonies, ringing chords, a lot of smiles and more than a few laughs. Members: George Davidson, Ryan Wilson, Mike Davidson, Mark Zenk |
 | Legacy
Legacy is a nationally known Christian vocal group that is based out of Lubbock, TX. Their sound has been compared to many world renowned groups such as Take 6, Acappella, Gaither Vocal Band and Rockapella. The group consists of John Paul Sheppard, Clint Dickerson, Josh Wheeler and Jake Lierman. Legacy originally got their start in the fall of 2002 while in college together, but the group only lasted for about a year. After a summer tour in 2003 and recording a CD together, the guys felt that God was calling them to do other things with their lives and they decided to put the group on hold for a while. Members: Jake Lierman, John Paul Sheppard, Clint Dickerson, Josh Wheeler, Nick Gaultney |
 | The 40th Parallel
The 40th Parallel began as the Colorado Collegiate All Stars, a talented group of college vocalists banded together by the goal of becoming a professional vocal group. The group was formed by audition in May of 2007. That summer, The 40th Parallel learned two hours of contemporary pop/rock music and performed over twenty five times including opening for face at Nissi‚s Bistro and at the Colorado Vocal Conference in October of 2007. This ambitious group of college students and graduates has big plans to continue to develop and eventually join the ranks of the other extremely successful professional groups in the Denver area. Members: Andrew Hoag, Kate Spencer, Richard Steighner, Nick McCart, Sean Martin, Nicole Saint |
 | Curious Gage
Curious Gage - Working out of Fort Collins, Colorado, Curious Gage has been a fixture in the contemporary a cappella scene for over 5 years. With five voices, five microphones, dynamic bass and powerful vocal percussion, the members of Curious Gage capture the energy and enthusiasm of an instrumental band using only their voices. Winners of the illustrious Rocky Mountain Harmony Sweepstakes competition in 2006, Curious Gage has enjoyed national a cappella recognition and local acclaim, and has spread their love of vocal harmony across the Front Range. Members: Tom Miles, Kristi Siedow, Phil Thompson, Carleen Widhalm, Nic Widhalm |
 | Vox Feminae
Vox Feminae is the University of Colorado at Denver‚s newest a cappella ensemble. This group of 8 women performs very dense, difficult harmonies in several different styles, including Latin, folk and pop, and is quickly proving the saying "Who needs a man, anyway". Watch for them to perform at the University of Colorado at Denver's Spring A Cappella concert. Members: Sabrina Zirakzadeh, Sarah Golay, Rachel Becker, Danielle Becerra, Kameshia Hazard, Jacque Legler, Genevieve Binder, Carli Dean |
Home |Boston | Chicago | Rocky Mountain | Los Angeles | New York | Pacific North West | San Francisco | Mid Atlantic (DC)
Regional Champions: Boston | Chicago | Denver | Los Angeles | Mid-Atlantic | New York | Pacific NW | SF Bay Area
