Superior A Capella Thriving

Northern Michigan University's Superior A Cappella, a mixed-voice, student-run ensemble, has grown from its humble beginnings into a thriving musical group, bringing together up to two dozen students each semester. It performed various selections from pop musicals such as "Frozen" and "Wicked," along with a mix of rhythm and blues songs, at its winter semester concert April 15.

Members come from a variety of academic majors, creating a diverse mix of backgrounds within the ensemble. Superior A Cappella's President Jessica Schrader said she first became interested after attending the group's debut concert in fall 2023.

"It was one of those concerts where you're like, I really want to be a part of this," she said.

After auditioning in winter 2024, she was selected to join and ascended to a leadership role as president. She said the group rekindled her love for performing and provided a creative outlet outside of traditional classes.

Superior A Cappella holds auditions each semester. Students are asked to prepare a short vocal piece and complete basic sight-reading exercises. The process helps determine vocal placement and assess experience levels while keeping the group manageable in size.

The group selects its music collaboratively. Members and board leaders submit song suggestions during breaks, provided they can locate sheet music. The group then narrows selections, votes on favorites and builds a balanced program with a mix of styles and tempos.

"We want a good mix," Schrader said. "We don't want a whole concert of just one artist or one style."

Rehearsals typically last about two hours and include announcements, structured practice time and a short break. Members rotate through songs each week, culminating in performances.

Unlike many collegiate groups of this type, Superior A Cappella does not compete. Instead, the focus is on creating a low-pressure environment centered on enjoyment and musical growth.

"We're just a group where you can come as you are and make music," Schrader said.

The organization traces its roots to earlier campus groups formed around 2019 and 2020, which dissolved during the COVID-19 pandemic. After another attempt in 2022, the current version of the group was established in fall 2023 and has continued since.

Looking ahead, Schrader said the group aims to expand community outreach, increase campus awareness and challenge members with more advanced music. The students also strive to create a meaningful experience for audiences.

"We want people to connect to it in some way," she said. "Even if it's just a song that sticks with them."

Superior A Cappella regularly participates in campus events such as Winter Fest and Fall Fest and encourages members to promote the group through their academic programs and activities.

For Schrader, the group provides more than just a musical experience. She said it allows students to apply skills from their studies, build connections and feel more engaged on campus.

"It makes you feel like you have a purpose," she said.

As current leaders prepare to graduate in the coming semesters, Schrader said she hopes to leave the group in a strong position for future students.

"We've set it up for success," she said. "That's what matters most."