2026 ICHSA South Semifinal @ The Carolina Theatre

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

ICHSA SOUTH SEMIFINAL

The Carolina Theatre
Friday, March 27th, 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 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.

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.

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

Aquapella is the premier contemporary a cappella group from NSU University School in Davie, Fla. A completely student-driven group, all of their choreography and leadership come from the group’s own talented ranks. Their vocal percussionist has perfect pitch and three group members were accepted into A Cappella Academy this past summer. Aquapella was featured at the National A Cappella Convention (NACC) Showcase for three consecutive years and selected as a Guest Performer for the Florida Music Education Association (FMEA) Conference. As they prepare for their second ICHSA, Aquapella continues to embody the values of NSU University School’s Performing Arts Department: collaboration, creativity, and musical excellence. Whether they’re on the stage or in rehearsal, this group of passionate singers is a family that lives for the thrill of harmony and the joy of making music together.

B-Side is excited to return to the ICHSA stage this season after a lengthy hiatus. B-Side hails from Bearden High School in Knoxville, Tenn., where the fine arts department maintains a standard of excellence. The students of B-Side are passionate about performing, close-knit as a group, and committed to giving their all on stage every time. These Bearden Bulldogs promise to give a performance that is off the chain!

Crescenloe is an entirely student-run a cappella group from Enloe High School in Raleigh, N.C. Originally founded by Nyla Smith, Crescenloe works hard to follow the five pillars of “Cresc”: collaboration, respect, enthusiasm, slayocity, and communication. A two-time ICHSA Quarterfinal Champion and four-time ICHSA Semifinalist, Crescenloe aims to make music they love with people they love.

Shades of Gold is an energetic and vibrant group of fun-loving students in grades nine through 12 from Poplarville High School in Poplarville, Miss.! These talented young singers share their passion for music by performing at school and community events, where they create unforgettable moments for every audience. With a commitment to excellence, Shades of Gold also competes in local competitions, showcasing their incredible talent and enthusiasm. This year marks a thrilling milestone for the group as they make their ICHSA debut, and they couldn’t be more excited! Their simple mission is to bring joy to everyone who hears them sing. Watch out for Shades of Gold as they light up the stage and spread happiness through their music!

Sonic Edge A Cappella is the award-winning vocal ensemble from the Cobb County Center for Excellence in the Performing Arts at Pebblebrook High School. Composed of 18 voices, this group is known for its electrifying performances, dynamic harmonies, and cutting-edge vocal arrangements. Sonic Edge performs a wide ranging repertoire, from chart-topping pop hits and soulful ballads to high-energy musical theatre selections. Under the direction of Trey Giddens, Sonic Edge has earned back-to-back National Champion titles at the ICHSA. Beyond competition, the group performs throughout the community, inspiring audiences with their passion for music and their commitment to artistic collaboration. They can’t wait to perform and see what the other teams have in store!

Sounds of PRC is the premier competitive a cappella ensemble from Pearl River Central High School in Carriere, Miss. Representing grades nine through 12, this elite group of 16 vocalists is known for their precision, musicality, and powerful sound. Founded in 2019, Sounds has quickly built a reputation for artistic excellence, emotional storytelling, and a bold, modern performance style. Each year, Sounds represents Pearl River Central across Mississippi through competitions and community performances, and they are proud to compete in their second consecutive ICHSA. Tonight, they invite you to experience their sound, their passion, and their story. Please welcome Sounds of PRC to the stage!

Spectra is a 15-member a cappella ensemble representing Oak Grove High School in Hattiesburg, Miss. Under the direction of Hilary Strum, they are known for their high-energy performances and tight harmonies. They made their ICHSA debut last season and advanced to the 2025 ICHSA South Semifinals in their first year competing. This fall, Spectra will release their debut album, Wings, on streaming platforms everywhere.

Now in its third year of competition, Titonix is proud to represent University High School with a sound that’s traveled the globe, from New York to London, and soon, Italy! This year’s set explores the universal experience of anxiety and the search for belonging. Through powerful vocal storytelling, they assure audiences that these feelings are temporary and that everyone will find their place, whether through friendship, sports, or music itself. Titonix is especially proud to honor its seniors and some founding members who are graduating this year: Alyssa, Aedan, Tommy, Shania, Araya, and Rain. Their voices helped build Titonix from the ground up and although they will be deeply missed, their legacy will continue to resonate. Good luck in all your future endeavors and keep singing!

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.

Vocality is Boone High School’s pop a cappella group, turning heads with every note. With slick harmonies, infectious energy, and a love for all things pop, this crew turns every performance into a party. More than just talented, Vocality snagged the title of 2025 ICHSA South Quarterfinal Champions and advanced to ICHSA South Semifinals in both 2025 and 2023. Their onstage magic extends to the studio and two of their songs are currently available to stream on Spotify and other music platforms. Vocality is proud to bring their signature sound to earbuds around the world and excited to share their gifts in person with you!

TONIGHT'S JUDGES

Christopher Andres is a passionate and dedicated music professional with a diverse background in both vocal and instrumental music. He attended The Ohio State University and Sinclair Community College, where he actively participated in The University Chorus and Men's Glee. A proud graduate of Greenville High School, Christopher was deeply involved in the school’s Vocal Music Department, singing in the men’s choir, concert choir, Choraliers, and The Wavaires. He was also a key member of the Instrumental Band Department, performing in symphonic band, concert band, and marching band. His instrumental talents include the flute, saxophone, and baritone. Christopher has performed on numerous stages across the world as an instrumentalist and vocalist. Currently, he is the Assistant Vocal Music Director and accompanist at Greenville Senior High School in Greenville, Ohio, going into his eighth year. In addition to his church leadership, Christopher is in his seventh year as assistant vocal music director and accompanist at Greenville Senior High School in Greenville, Ohio. Christopher's musical journey began at age five when he first played the piano at his local church, a connection that ignited his lifelong passion for music and education. He also serves as a board member for the Darke County Civic Theatre since 2025. Through his work, Christopher continues to inspire and enrich the musical community.

Brooks Jordan began singing a cappella in college with The North Carolina State Grains of Time. The Grains made it to Semifinals each year he competed with them, and earned 1st place in Quarterfinals for his last two years. In Brooks’ senior year, he led the group to Japan to collaborate with the Japan A Cappella Association in an effort to understand different cultures through music. Workshopping with Japanese collegiate groups and performing for the United States ambassador are just a few accolades from this trip. Brooks serves on the Contemporary A Cappella Recording Awards (CARAs) board and works with the production teams of festivals, such as SoJam and Boston Sings (BOSS). Brooks lives in Durham, N.C., where he works full time as a bio-pharmaceutical researcher.

Kristin LoBiondo, an aca-millennial, has been judging ICCA and ICHSA events for over a decade in North Carolina, Maryland, and Georgia. Her a cappella journey has included planning festivals, such as SoJam, the Los Angeles A Cappella Festival (LAAF), BOSS, and others, working with various production studios, and performing with Snowday, Vox Pop, and Jaded. She earned her B.A. in vocal music at Elon University, and her current singing outlet (outide of the car and shower) is performing the national anthem at Duke basketball games. Kristin's favorite part of judging is observing how the aca-bop has evolved over the years.

While his experience with a cappella began as a member of Eight Beat Measure in 2005, Rick Thomas has been extremely active in the greater a cappella community since 2010. Over the years, he has served as Contemporary A Cappella Society (CASA) Program Manager of Awards, Director of Outreach for both CASA and the A Cappella Education Association, and a member of the SoJam production team. Additionally, Rick serves as a clinician for groups across the country and works as a producer and mix engineer with Richard Thomas Music.

SPECIAL THANKS

Varsity Vocals would like to recognize and thank Transit and the Carolina Theatre Staff for an amazing season; 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 placing group at this event will advance to the 2026 ICHSA Finals

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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