2026 ICCA South Quarterfinal @ Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College

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 SOUTH QUARTERFINAL

Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College
Saturday, March 7th, 2026

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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

The AcaBelles is Florida State University's only soprano-alto a cappella group. Founded in 2000, these women have been redefining female a cappella ever since, with their fierce choreography, killer vocals, and innovative arrangements. The singers represent various backgrounds and unique styles, and blend together to form a commanding presence in the Tallahassee a cappella community. The group achieved international success with their cover of a certain regal chart-topper, catching the eyes and ears of CNN, “Good Morning America,” and Lorde herself. Since then, The 'Belles have traveled to numerous gigs, placed 3rd in their 2024 ICCA South Quarterfinal, and raised funds to record a variety of albums, EPs, and singles, including Bloom, Phases, Wavelength, Seamless, Rebel, Dimensions, and “Pretty Hurts.” The AcaBelles aim to promote soprano-alto a cappella singing throughout the Florida State University and its surrounding areas.

All-Night Yahtzee is Florida State University's premier all-gender a cappella group. All-Night Yahtzee was created in fall 1998 by Brian Haverkate, motivated by his ambition and passion for music. The group members represent different places, musical backgrounds, and interests, but come together to create music, entertainment, and a great time. They have competed in many previous ICCA seasons, earning top placements and special awards at the Quarterfinal and Semifinal levels.

Currents is Pearl River Community College's powerhouse treble vocal group! These singers spend their year traveling, recording, and competing, and they recently made waves with the release of their debut single, “Smart Iowa.” In their very first ICCA Quarterfinal, they earned an impressive 4th place finish and danced their way to an Outstanding Choreography award. More than just a competitive group, Currents is dedicated to serving the college and community, sharing their music at campus events, local schools, and beyond. Whether they’re performing onstage, volunteering in the community, or cheering on their fellow group members, Currents’ mission is to connect people through music and make a difference.

Dooley Noted is the only service-oriented, gender-inclusive a cappella group at Emory University in Atlanta. They foster a creative environment that encourages members to arrange music and bond through their love of music. Dooley Noted strives to increase its presence in the community by performing for Emory and the greater Atlanta area. Dooley Noted has been performing at ICCA for over a decade, and looks forward to many future years in the competition. Last year, they received the Outstanding Arrangement award at their 2025 ICCA South Quarterfinal for their arrangement of “The Gold.” Every year, they record their ICCA set and release it on streaming services to share with the world. Dooley Noted cannot wait to share their 2026 set with tonight’s audience.

Founded in the heart of Decatur, Miss., EC Listening is East Central Community College’s premier contemporary a cappella ensemble. Known for their dynamic harmonies, powerful soloists, and innovative arrangements, the group brings a fresh and heartfelt sound to every stage. Blending pop, rock, jazz, and R&B influences, EC Listening creates performances that are both emotionally engaging and musically polished. Since its formation, EC Listening has become a standout voice in the collegiate a cappella scene, representing East Central with energy, excellence, and community spirit. The group is proud to have performed at regional and national festivals, campus events, and community celebrations across Mississippi. In 2025, EC Listening made its debut appearance in the ICCA South Quarterfinals, marking an exciting new chapter in their journey. More than just a group of singers, EC Listening is a family of musicians, united by their collaboration, creativity, and connection. Whether performing a soaring ballad or a high-energy anthem, EC Listening’s mission is to move hearts, lift spirits, and leave audiences truly listening.

Reverb is FSU's premier tenor-bass a cappella group. They perform a wide range of music and enjoy sharing it with their community. Their new album, Falling, is available wherever you stream music! Reverb took a competitive hiatus for several years, but returned in full force last year with appearances at two Contemporary A Cappella Society (CASA) competitions. They are excited to return to the ICCA stage this year!

Spirit of Southern is the premier a cappella ensemble at The University of Southern Mississippi in Hattiesburg, Miss. The group performs at various university and community events in the Hattiesburg area, and serves as one of the primary recruitment arms of Choral Activities. The students in this group span all undergraduate levels of study and various academic fields. They have been honored with invitations to perform at Mississippi ACDA/Mississippi Music Educators Association state conferences, as well as the Southern Region Conference of the American Choral Directors Association. SOS is super excited to be back for their second ICCA season!

Founded in 2016 at Mississippi State University, The TrebullDawgs is a spirited collegiate a cappella ensemble, dedicated to pushing the boundaries of vocal artistry and performance. Their name beautifully combines their musical identity and school spirit. “Trebull” represents the treble clef, symbolizing musical precision and creativity, while “Dawgs” proudly honors the MSU Bulldogs mascot and their university community. A diverse group of students from various majors and backgrounds, The TrebullDawgs are united by a shared passion for harmony, rhythm, and expression. Their repertoire features an exciting mix of contemporary chart-toppers, timeless classics, and original arrangements. Their performances showcase rich vocal blends, bold solos, and dynamic beatboxing that captivate audiences. The TrebullDawgs have competed in two previous ICCA seasons, advancing to Semifinals in 2025. Beyond competition, they engage with the community through benefit concerts, local outreach, and educational performances. The group also values personal growth, fostering leadership, teamwork, and creativity among its members. Whether they’re performing on campus or across the Southeast, The TrebullDawgs continue to share their legacy of vocal passion and musical excellence.

Tune In is one of the University of Alabama's premier a cappella ensembles and a powerhouse of sound, personality, and unapologetic authenticity. With 18 members representing 11 of the university's 12 colleges and hailing from all over the United States, this group includes a unique combination of voices, styles, and perspectives. Founded on originality and drive, Tune In began as a self-made collective performing entirely student-arranged and composed sets. They have recently expanded their vision, stepping into the collegiate a cappella scene with a debut performance at the OneVoice Invitational in January 2025. Tune In is ecstatic to continue this journey in 2026 as UA's first-ever representative at the ICCA. Every performance celebrates the group’s collaborative spirit, musical versatility, and the deep connection they share together. This is Tune In!

The Voices is Pearl River Communty College’s premier vocal ensemble! Last year, they released their album, Absence of Time, won a Contemporary A Cappella Recording Award (CARA) for Best Country Song, and traveled to Puerto Rico for an unforgettable summer performance. They have competed in previous ICCA seasons, notably winning 1st place and Outstanding Choreography in their 2023 ICCA South Quarterfinal. This year, The Voices are honored to sing for the ACDA Southern Region Conference in Memphis, while continuing to compete, record, and share their signature sound. With a host of new members joining the mix, get ready for a fresh take on The Voices’ sound you know and love!

GUEST PERFORMER

Traces of Blue is the advanced women’s choir and pop a cappella ensemble from Sumrall High School in Sumrall, Miss. Traces of Blue has performed extensively throughout the United States and is thrilled to enter its fourth ICHSA season. The ensemble proudly represented Mississippi and the South region at the 2024 ICHSA Finals in New York City, performing among the nation’s top high school groups. Beyond competition, Traces of Blue consistently earns Superior ratings at festivals, evaluations, and events, showcasing their commitment to musical excellence and artistic growth. More than performers, Traces of Blue members see themselves as servant leaders. They aim to be a light to others by sharing their musical talents, inspiring confidence in younger singers, and enriching life in their community.

TONIGHT'S JUDGES

Paige Betts is the orchestra director at Mountain View High School in Lawrenceville, Ga. She is an experienced music educator, having taught string orchestra, chorus, and musical theatre, and has twice been runner-up for Teacher of the Year. She has given clinics with various orchestras, chorus, and a cappella ensembles across the Southeast, and has taught private voice and viola lessons. Paige is a graduate of the University of Georgia and is currently working towards becoming a Double Dawg. Paige lives in Winterville, Ga. with her husband, Andrew, and their dogs, Jake and Barbara.

A native of Ripley, Tenn., Emmanuel Carney holds two Bachelor of Music Education degrees in instrumental and choral music education from the University of Southern Mississippi. He currently serves as Director of Choirs and Assistant Band Director at Long Beach Middle School, where he directs the Harper McCaughan Singers, Bearcat treble chorus, Bearcat Opus, Bearcat chorale, and beginning band. Under his leadership, the Long Beach Middle School choirs have consistently earned Superior ratings in both onstage and sight-reading performances at the state level. In 2025, the LBMS Choirs were selected as Grand Champion Choir at the Atlanta Heritage Festival. That same year, Emmanuel was named the 2025 Outstanding Young Music Educator Award recipient at the Mississippi Music Educators Association Conference. In 2024, Emmanuel was selected as the winner of the inaugural Tidewater Conducting Summit & Competition at Old Dominion University in Norfolk, Va. He was also named the local and district VFW Teacher of the Year for the 2024–2025 school year. As a performer, Emmanuel has performed and toured at the state, national, and international levels, including performances in South Korea, Estonia, and Spain. Emmanuel is a member of the American Choral Directors Association, Mississippi Music Educators Association, Gulf Coast Band Directors Association, Mississippi Bandmasters Association, and the National Association for Music Education.

Jeffery Coulter is currently in his 20th year of education, having spent his entire career at Sumrall High School. At Sumrall High School, Jeffery teaches choral music to students in all grade levels and directs the concert choir, Legacy Show Choir, and the female advanced women's choir and pop a cappella ensemble, Traces of Blue. Under Jeffery’s direction, his choirs consistently achieve Superior ratings in both stage performance and sightreading at festivals and competitions. In 2024, Traces of Blue advanced to the ICHSA Finals. During Jeffery’s tenure, the choirs at Sumrall High School have performed in Alabama, Louisiana, Georgia, Florida, Tennessee, New York, and Utah. In addition to his work at Sumrall High School, Jeffery serves on the Mississippi American Choral Directors Association board as Contemporary and Commercial Arts Chair. His primary task is hosting the event, AcaFest. Through this event, a cappella groups from throughout the Southeast join together to learn techniques from renowned clinicians to sharpen their vocal and stage performance skills. Currently, Jeffery serves as the music director at Sumrall Methodist Church.

A beatboxer of over 15 years, Ian Simmons stumbled into the world of a cappella in 2014, when he first attended A Cappella Academy. He attended for the subsequent three summers and carried his passion to and through his college years at Chapman University. A recipient of numerous vocal percussion awards, he competed in the ICCA with his collegiate group, SoundCheck, and was a Finalist in the 2019 Open competition with his group, Aperture. When he isn't working on independent a cappella projects, Ian enjoys taking in Nashville's amazing food and live music, supporting event and concert production, and working remotely for an a cappella production company.

SPECIAL THANKS

Varsity Vocals would like to recognize and thank Traces of Blue for serving as our emcees and deliberation act tonight; 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 South 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

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