2026 ICCA Mid-Atlantic Quarterfinal @ West Chester University

DEAR FRIENDS,

Welcome to Varsity Vocals’ 30th season! After more than a quarter century of presenting the best student groups on the stage and in the studio, our enthusiasm for the art of a cappella is greater than ever.

Our tournaments have grown from a handful of events to the massive showcase they are today, currently featuring more than 730 groups and around 12,000 singers at over 85 events across North America and the United Kingdom.

Our original tournament inspired the hit movie, "Pitch Perfect," based on the nonfiction book documenting the true story of rival groups competing in our very own ICCA. The "Pitch Perfect" franchise remains the highest-grossing cinematic musical series of all time.

Despite the incredible growth and mainstream popularity we’ve enjoyed, our focus remains sharply on the promotion and development of the talent that crosses our stage. We believe competition fosters growth, as groups work together toward a specific goal and cultivate lifelong skills and relationships.

We provide insightful feedback from our highly qualified judges, but more importantly, our singers get to connect with a larger audience from across the country, learning from their peers and finding inspiration from other groups.

We have seen a cappella make great strides from where it began on our stage 30 years ago and can’t wait to see how our 2026 competitors continue to push the envelope. Committed to promoting our singers and energized by the incredible music they create, we look forward to another memorable season. Thank you for joining us!

Sincerely,

Amanda Newman
Executive Director

ICCA MID-ATLANTIC QUARTERFINAL

West Chester University
Saturday, February 28th, 2026

WE'RE SOCIAL

We're talking about this event, and all of our events around the world!

varsityvocals

@varsityvocals

ABOUT VARSITY VOCALS

Since 1996, we have encouraged students worldwide to sing a cappella throughout their lives. Our programs include both the International Championship of Collegiate A Cappella (ICCA), and the International Championship of High School A Cappella (ICHSA). We also annually produce The Best of College A Cappella (BOCA) and The Best of High School A Cappella (BOHSA) compilation albums.

Our a cappella competitions give top-notch a cappella groups the opportunity to showcase their talents for an international audience and to take home valuable feedback from our qualified judges. This year, competing groups will appear in venues all around the world, offering their energetic musical performances for your enjoyment.

The college tournament, now in it's 30th year, takes place from January through April in nine regions across the country and around the world. Each region holds four or five Quarterfinals, and the top groups from each Quarterfinal advance to the Semifinal. The winning group at each Semifinal is named Regional Champion and advances to the ICCA Finals at The Town Hall in New York City on Saturday, April 25th.

The high school tournament is now in its 21st year. The winners of each of seven Semifinal rounds will advance to the ICHSA Finals at The Town Hall in New York City on Friday, April 24th.

For a full tournament schedule, visit us at www.varsityvocals.com/events

ABOUT TONIGHT'S SHOW

The performance order was determined by random draw this afternoon and will be announced from stage.

Tonight’s performers will be evaluated on elements of their vocal and visual performance, which carry numerical weight. The highest and lowest score from the individual judges will be dropped for each group. Our judges may recognize exceptional performances with special awards as they see fit.

There will be a 15-minute intermission. After the final group has performed, a guest performer will entertain you while the scores are tabulated.

Because each group only has 10 minutes to perform, we ask you to keep your applause to an enthusiastic minimum between songs. Please feel welcome to applaud as much as you want after each group has finished its set.

Videotaping and non-flash photography for personal use is permitted during the concert, so long as you do not disrupt our performers or other patrons. Due to licensing regulations, we do not provide a video or audio recording of this performance.

TONIGHT'S COMPETITORS

Cadence is Lafayette College's premier all-treble a cappella group! Cadence performs a range of a cappella music for the Lafayette and Easton communities and functions as a creative outlet for group members, offering a space for them to take risks, have fun, and be themselves. Ever since their debut two years ago, ICCA has been an annual highlight for Cadence, motivating them to refine their sound, strengthen their bond, and challenge themselves creatively. Some of their favorite artists to cover include Adele, Rihanna, Queen, and the “Pitch Perfect” cast! Through every rehearsal and performance, Cadence continues to grow as musicians and friends, united by their love of music and performing together. They can’t wait to continue sharing their music and passion for a cappella with every audience!

The Lafayette Chorduroys is Lafayette College’s lower-voice (tenor, baritone, bass) a cappella group! They perform for campus events, like Evening of A Cappella, Spring Jams, and the annual Chorduroys Concert to close out every academic year. The Chorduroys bring energy, doo-wops, and a whole lot of corduroy to every stage. This year, they are excited to share an ICCA set of feel-good nostagia, featuring “The Longest Time" by Billy Joel, “Wouldn’t it be Nice" by The Beach Boys, and "Don't You Worry Bout A Thing" by Stevie Wonder. With four enthusiastic new members joining them onstage for their first ICCA, The Chorduroys are proud to continue this tradition in their classic corduroy pants and blazers. Bringing soul, retro harmony, and old-school charm, The Chords hope you enjoy their performance as much as they have enjoyed preparing it!

The Golden Blues is the University of Delaware’s oldest all-gender a cappella group, founded in 1989. For over 35 years, they have been creating music together and sharing their art with the surrounding community! Beyond the music, the group has built long-lasting friendships and a second family for each of its members. The Golden Blues share a deep love for their music and connection that shines through every performance. Although they’re primarily focused on indie and pop songs, they love to experiment with other genres to expand their musical repertoire. Every Golden Blues arrangement is written by current or former members. They have an EP prepared for release this year, which will include their cherished group song, connecting generations of Golden Blues members since 1989. Thrilled for their third consecutive ICCA, The Golden Blues are honored to perform alongside such talented groups and grateful for the opportunity to share their music.

High Street Harmonix is a competitive all-voice a cappella group from West Chester University. They strive to create community and spread joy through music. The group is composed of undergraduate students from all years and majors and they perform contemporary a cappella music on the WCU campus and within their community. High Street Harmonix has competed annually in the ICCA since 2015, most recently placing 2nd in their 2025 ICCA Mid-Atlantic Quarterfinal and winning Outstanding Arrangement and Outstanding Vocal Percussion for their entire set along the way. They are so excited to be performing in this year's competition and cannot wait to hear all of the other talented groups tonight!

The Lafayette Mar-Keys is one of two all-voices groups from Lafayette College. Founded in 2015, their repertoire includes a blend of pop, R&B, and indie music. This is their fourth year competing and their 2026 ICCA set is a collection of the group’s favorite songs. The Mar-Keys are so grateful to be here and they hope you enjoy the show!

The MelUDees is one of the University of Delaware’s premier all-gender a cappella groups, spreading good vibes and great music since 2006! Known for their creative arrangements and performances, The ‘Dees love bringing their unique sound to audiences both on and off campus. Over the years, The MelUDees have proudly represented UD at the ICCA, earning spots at Mid-Atlantic Semifinals and placing in Quarterfinals for the last three consecutive years. Whether they’re competing, performing at campus events, or singing for local fundraisers, The MelUDees bring passion, personality, and a whole lot of heart to everything they do. As they celebrate 20 years of making music together, they’re beyond excited to continue sharing their harmonies and joy with audiences everywhere.

Founded in 2003, Soulfege is Lafayette’s premier all-voice a cappella group. The group’s goals include showcasing their shared love of music for the greater Lafayette community, creating complex musical arrangements, and providing a supportive environment for its members to grow as singers, leaders, and, most importantly, family. They love bonding together outside of rehearsal by sharing meals and hosting social gatherings. This year, Soulfege is excited to bring five talented new members to round out their 18-person ensemble. They are so excited for the opportunity to share their set and listen to the other amazing a cappella groups in the region. Soulfege has loved all of their past ICCA experiences and they are excited to be back for the 2026 season!

Stockapella was founded by a group of friends who just liked to sing. They gave their first concert in 2007 and steadily began to grow. After they attended an ICCA Mid-Atlantic Semifinal in 2010, they were inspired by the opportunity to compete and get to know other a cappella groups. That same year, interest in a cappella at Stockton grew so much that another group, The Stocktones, was formed. Stockapella competed in their first ICCA Quarterfinal in 2011, the same year that a third group, Stockata, took shape at Stockton. Stockapella has participated in the ICCA every year since then, and they’re always eager to improve and try new things. While striving for excellence, Stockapella works hard to develop a unique signature style. Stockton’s three a cappella ensembles work together tirelessly to support one another. Stockapella sends love to their friends and supporters all across Stockton a cappella!

One of two competitive a cappella groups on the West Chester campus, Under a Rest was established in 2014 and has been competing in the ICCA ever since. They most recently earned 2nd place in the 2024 ICCA Wildcard round and 1st place in their 2025 Mid-Atlantic Quarterfinal. Under a Rest performs contemporary a cappella music throughout campus and the West Chester community.

Vocal Point, a competitive gender-inclusive a cappella group from the University of Delaware, has been performing for over 25 years, originally as an 80s pop tribute ensemble. They have earned numerous accolades at various competitions over the years, most recently winning Outstanding Soloist at last year's ICCA. Vocal Point would like to thank The MelUDees for inviting them and they are so excited to share their passion with you tonight!

TONIGHT'S JUDGES

A lifelong singer, Abby Armstrong was bitten by the a cappella bug in high school in 2006 and has been performing with and leading a cappella groups ever since. Abby is a proud alumna of The Brandeis Starving Artists, with whom she competed in three ICCA seasons, making it to the 2010 ICCA Northeast Semifinals as a featured soloist. Although she is unable to apply her musical theatre vocal training directly to her career in the corporate world, Abby is thrilled to have found post-collegiate a cappella groups to call home. Abby currently serves as president of The Graduates in Philadelphia (@thegraduatesphilly), where she sings as a mezzo, does vocal percussion, and arranges.

Gregory Davis is a Philadelphia-based singer, vocal arranger, and choreographer. He has captivated audiences on some of the world’s most prestigious stages, performing for popes, politicians, activists, and Broadway legends. His ICCA journey began in 2018 when he competed with Temple University’s OwlCappella and advanced all the way to Finals. Since then, he has established himself as an accomplished arranger and choreographer, earning multiple Contemporary A Cappella Recording Award (CARA) nominations, a CARA win, and recognition for excellence in choreography. Gregory has served as an ICCA judge since 2022 and is excited to return for tonight’s competition. Best of luck to all the groups!

Alex McKay is a vocalist, arranger, and music director based in the New York City metropolitan area. He has performed throughout the U.S. and Europe with vocal ensembles, including the Richmond Symphony Chorus, the University of Michigan Chamber Choir, regional and national honors choirs, and most recently the New York Vocal Collective under the direction of Ben Bram. Alex earned his Bachelor of Musical Arts in vocal performance from the University of Michigan’s School of Music, Theatre & Dance, where he studied with world-renowned operatic tenor, George Shirley. During his time at Michigan, Alex served as music director of Amazin’ Blue A Cappella for three consecutive years, arranging and producing multiple award-winning ICCA sets. In his senior year, he was elected to the executive board of the University of Michigan A Cappella Council, which oversees the nation’s largest collegiate a cappella community. In addition to performing and arranging, Alex frequently leads clinics and workshops with collegiate a cappella groups throughout the Mid-Atlantic region. Competing in ICCA was a highlight of his undergraduate experience and he is thrilled to continue his journey with Varsity Vocals.

Sebastian "Sebi" Santiago-Rivas is a native of Philly and former ICCA competitor with Temple U's OwlCappella. He currently teaches choir, music technology, and directs the high school a cappella group at the Girard Academic Music Program (GAMP) in Philadelphia. Sebi has previously worked as an instructor at Camp A Cappella in Dayton, Ohio, teaching small ensembles, bass vocal technique classes, vocal percussion, and barbershop harmony. He currently sings bass in Parkside Harmony, a competitive barbershop chorus based in Hershey, and is on the board of the parent organization known as Parkside Voices. On the side, Sebi dabbles in vocal music production and recording, as well as live sound. He lives in West Philadelphia with his girlfriend and their cat, and is excited to be back to judge for Varsity Vocals!

SPECIAL THANKS

Varsity Vocals would like to recognize and thank our judges, hosts, competitors, volunteers, partners, and producers; and you, the audience, for supporting Varsity Vocals programming.

Amanda Newman
Executive Director

Elise Hackl-Blumstein
ICHSA Director
PA/MA Program Coordinator

Dave Rabizadeh
ICCA Director

Emily Sucher
Director of Publications

Lucy Jacobs
Senior Producer, ICCA & ICHSA West

Lindsay Howerton-Hastings
Senior Producer, ICCA South

Arvin Zabalerio
Senior Producer, ICCA Central

Gemma Witham
Producer, ICCA United Kingdom

Rebecca Williamson
Producer, ICCA Northeast

Adam McNeil
Producer, ICHSA Great Lakes

Valentyna Simon
Producer, ICHSA West

Ben Garza
Producer, ICHSA Southwest

Bryce McCracken
Associate Producer, ICCA Central

Angelina Corbin
Associate Producer
ICCA & ICHSA South

Sara Yood
Senior Producer, ICCA & ICHSA Finals

Emily Flanders
Director of Adjudication
Senior Producer, ICCA Great Lakes

Andrew Poole
Director of Digital Media

Charlotte Taylor
Marketing & Social Strategy

Holli Kitching
Senior Producer, ICCA Mid-Atlantic

Leah Alrutz
Senior Producer, ICCA Midwest

Alaina Wegner
Producer, ICCA Southwest

Christopher Witham
Producer, ICCA United Kingdom

Jillian Kimberlin
Senior Producer, ICHSA Mid-Atlantic

Christopher Hoffman
Producer, ICHSA Northeast

Jake Yoakum
Producer, ICHSA West

Nicole Palmetto
Associate Producer, ICCA Northeast

Tyandria Jaaber
Associate Producer, ICCA Mid-Atlantic

McKinley Thoreson
Associate Producer
ICHSA Great Lakes

OUR TEAM

We have an amazing team of people who work tirelessly to make our programs so valuable for our singers and audiences alike — and they all do it while holding down full-time day jobs, too!

The top two placing groups at this event will advance to the 2026 ICCA Mid-Atlantic Semifinal .

BRING THE HARMONY HOME

Find your favorite groups on The Best of College A Cappella (BOCA) and The Best of High School A Cappella (BOHSA), available for purchase on Apple Music and Amazon Music!

VIEW ALBUMS

#ICCA