Varsity Voices is Canterbury’s brand new a capella group. A capella means singing without any instrumental accompaniment. Varsity Voices made its debut Oct. 5th at the College Fair. The group is made up of soprano Margaret Melich ‘19, altos Mimi Dattilo ‘19 and Jessica Garcia ‘19, tenor Eli Taylor ‘19 and baritones Giorgo Caripidis Soto ‘19 and Reilly Curtis ‘18.
“A capella groups are very popular on both high school and college campuses, as well as in the amateur and professional adult musical culture, so it is a natural addition to our musical offerings here at Canterbury,” said Music Director Mrs. Armstrong, who is leading the group. And, for many of the members of Varsity Voices, it is also their first time experiencing this difficult, yet fascinating, genre of music.
“I always love singing and music is a big part of my life. I thought joining Varsity Voices would be a wonderful opportunity for me to challenge myself and to become a better musician” Jess said.
Despite the wonderful music Varsity Voices produces, the singers face challenges.
“A capella groups form a very strong bond, because they only have each other to rely on in order to make their music,” said Mrs. Armstrong. “When singing in ensembles with instruments, you always have help finding your notes, or maintaining the right key. In a capella, you only have your ears and each other. It’s a very exciting, and challenging, way to sing!”
“Varsity Voices allows to me to be close with people that I don’t usually hang out with – and go to DISNEY!” Jess said with enthusiasm, referring to the upcoming trip the music students will be taking to Disney World in February. “It’s not necessary to have any formal training, although it is definitely helpful to have sung in an ensemble before.”
Students interested in auditioning for Varsity Voices need to demonstrate an ability to sing in tune, have a clear, strong voice, and have the ability to hear harmonies and understand how their parts will fit in with all the other parts. Mrs. Armstrong and the Varsity Voices members encourage any students who are interested in singing to try out for Varsity Voices.
“Singing in an a capella group is hard work, but it’s very rewarding when it all comes together. You can hear how just six voices singing together in harmony can make the most amazing music!” Mrs. Armstrong said.
We look forward to more concerts by Varsity Voices as it brings this new type of music to the Canterbury community.
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