Hello all!
It’s no secret that there are plenty of Middlebury students who love to sing. In fact, out of the eight Senior Fellows, three of us sing in an a cappella group!
Right now there are many different groups on campus to choose from (check out the full list here). Each has a unique style and vibe. Whether your music preferences tend more towards pop or classical music, and whether you’d prefer to be in a coed or a single sex group – there’s something for everyone!
No previous experience is required in order to audition for any of the groups. I am in an all-female group called the Middlebury Mischords that holds auditions twice a year. I always enjoy the audition process – Every time I am so impressed at the amount of musical talent among Middlebury students.
The Mischords represent a wide array of academic and extra-curricular interests. This diversity of interests was something that surprised me when I first joined. I was expecting everyone to be a classically-trained music major, and that’s definitely not the case! We also have representatives from a wide range of sports teams. Last year was especially diverse in terms of athletics; we had mischords who played soccer, softball, lacrosse, and track.
Although I love the stress-relieving aspect of taking a study break and singing a few times a week, what I love most about being in an a cappella group is the feeling of community. I joined in February of my first year at Middlebury, but I wish that I had worked up the courage to audition in September. Joining student clubs and organizations here is so rewarding. It gives you the opportunity to find the micro-communities within the larger campus community. Through a cappella, I have met some truly amazing people and formed a group of friends that I may not have been able to get to know otherwise.
Last Friday we held our end of semester concert – or “Jambo” – in the beautiful Mead Chapel with our brother group the Dissipated Eight. I am always so impressed by the number of students that take time out of their busy schedules to come watch our concerts. There’s nothing quite like singing to a full audience!
Until next time,
– Nicole
(from our Halloween-themed concert)
(Here’s a video of one of my favorite Mischords songs – it’s an older video but a song that we still sing today)