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Friday, February 7
 

6:00pm PST

Registration
Friday February 7, 2020 6:00pm - 8:00pm PST
El Segundo Performing Arts Center 640 Main St, El Segundo, CA 90245

7:30pm PST

Scholastic Competition
Performers
avatar for Aperture

Aperture

Aperture was founded in March of 2019 by a group of friends in the Southern California a cappella community. They had a vision of creating something that played into the inherent cinematic nature of contemporary vocal arranging, and making music that conjures up colours and images... Read More →


Friday February 7, 2020 7:30pm - 10:30pm PST
El Segundo Performing Arts Center 640 Main St, El Segundo, CA 90245
 
Saturday, February 8
 

8:30am PST

Late Registration
Saturday February 8, 2020 8:30am - 10:00am PST
Santa Monica High School - Centennial Quad

9:00am PST

Effective Arranging
This class will delve into how to make your charts legible, singable, and sound great as quickly as possible! The goal is to give attendees tools to make their arrangements translate into live/recorded performances smoothly.

Instructors
avatar for Nathan Heldman

Nathan Heldman

Nathan Heldman is an arranger, director, vocalist, and pianist based in Los Angeles. He got his start in A Cappella in the SoCal VoCals, where he music directed and co-arranged their 2015 ICCA winning set. Under his direction the group performed at the White House, toured Hong Kong... Read More →


Saturday February 8, 2020 9:00am - 9:50am PST
SMHS Innovation 217

9:00am PST

Competition Crunch Time
Being in charge of your peers can be challenging, a class mainly for directors, learn how to approach a season of competitive a cappella. This class will help you pick a winning set, maximize productivity in rehearsals, and get your group to perform the way they rehearse all while keeping group morale high.

Instructors
avatar for Backtrack

Backtrack

Backtrack is a 5-person pop vocal group based in New York City. Their exciting arrangements transform familiar tunes and showcase the top-notch vocal (and beatboxing) abilities of all of the members. The group takes the stage around the nation at performing arts centers, corporate... Read More →


Saturday February 8, 2020 9:00am - 9:50am PST
SMHS Innovation 213

9:00am PST

Building The Team: Unity + Community
We spend countless hours unifying our musical sound, but what about unifying as human people with all of our thoughts and feelings? What about building a sense of community and belonging within the group? With years of experience directing over 15 different generations of a cappella groups, Lisa Forkish will lead participants in exploring the power of cultivating positive group dynamic, healthy communication, and deeper connection and trust among singers.

Instructors

Saturday February 8, 2020 9:00am - 9:50am PST
SMHS Innovation 207

9:00am PST

Essential Voice Technique for Ensemble and Solo Singers
Singers will learn how to be better ensemble members and soloists by working on essential technical exercises to improve range, flexibility, breath support and much more. Artistry is often compromised when dealing with the limitations of our instruments. Beth will provide tools to help singers address their limitations and improve their tone, range, control and overall musicianship. Participants will be given the opportunity to apply these techniques during the session as a soloist and/or ensemble member.

Instructors
avatar for Beth Rohde

Beth Rohde

Music Director, Coast Music
Beth Rohde is a singer, educator and music director. She earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Vocal Performance and Music Production from Berklee College of Music, and a Master’s Degree in Jazz Studies from USC where she was awarded a full-tuition Ella Fitzgerald Foundation Scholarship... Read More →


Saturday February 8, 2020 9:00am - 9:50am PST
SMHS Innovation 215

9:00am PST

Vocally Percussing: a beginners guide
Does the beat get sick when you sneeze on it? Do you want it to? Do you feel like you know where to even start? This session is for those who want to vocally percuss but don’t feel are quite there yet. I'll take you through the boots and the cats, what to do when you *just might pass out* and how to approach that one song your group wants to do that maybe isn’t in your wheelhouse but you have always wanted to learn how to make those noises. We’ll be starting from the basics but I welcome anyone to come by, hang out, learn some drum sounds and leave feeling like you might actually become the 808 machine you always wanted to be.

Instructors
avatar for Sarah Mercedes

Sarah Mercedes

Sarah Mercedes is from Orlando, Fl and resides in Boston, Ma. Her a cappella journey originally began at the University of Central Florida where she was a founding member of all-female group, KeyHarmony. After her studies at UCF, she began studying voice at Berklee College of Music... Read More →


Saturday February 8, 2020 9:00am - 9:50am PST
SMHS Innovation 221

10:10am PST

A Cappella Arranging: No Theory? No Problem!
If a lack of formally taught music theory has been an obstacle in beginning your arranging journey, this class will go over what you need to know to start making arrangements with some basic information and accessible tools.

Instructors
avatar for Grayson Villanueva

Grayson Villanueva

Founder, Grayson V LLC
Grayson Villanueva is an award-winning a cappella arranger, audio engineer, and videographer. Getting his start as the founder of 2011-2012 Uniting Voices (UC Irvine) and the professional vocal group #FOURTY4B (2014 LA Harmony Sweepstakes Champions, 2014 Kollaboration LA Finalists... Read More →


Saturday February 8, 2020 10:10am - 11:00am PST
SMHS Innovation 217

10:10am PST

Beyond Pop A Cappella
We all love pop. It’s in our DNA as a cappella singers. Sometimes, it’s a little fun to try something a little outside of the bubble.There is a broad world of a cappella music out there. In this workshop we will begin to broaden your musical world and introduce you to songs that can be used for specific events, such as weddings and funerals, as well as introduce you to genres that will keep your Pandora app spinning. By listening to, and performing other styles of a cappella, groups can bring elements from the choral, multicultural, and avant-garde world of music to push musical boundaries, appeal to different audiences, and find new connections to music.

Instructors
avatar for Bevin Abbe

Bevin Abbe

Performing Art Department Chair and Vocal Music Director, Santa Susana High School
Bevin Abbe is the Performing Arts Department Chair and Vocal Music director at Santa Susana High School in Simi Valley, CA. She received her Bachelors of Music in Music Education, as well as her teaching credential from San Diego State University. The five vocal groups, and Musical... Read More →


Saturday February 8, 2020 10:10am - 11:00am PST
SMHS Innovation 213

10:10am PST

CASA Roundtable
Join CASA Board Members in discussing the multiple CASA-sponsored events and initiatives throughout the year. Learn about upcoming opportunities and how you can be more involved with the community!

Producers
avatar for Andrew Berkowitz

Andrew Berkowitz

Treasurer, CASA
avatar for Gina Deaton

Gina Deaton

Gina has a background in all things vocal music, and got involved in a cappella through a semi-professional group after college. After attending SoJam (ahem) many years ago, she fell in love with the community and started volunteering whenever possible. Gina produced an album of original... Read More →
avatar for Jessica Chen

Jessica Chen

Director of Awards, CASA
avatar for Meron Mogos

Meron Mogos

Director of Events, CASA
Meron is originally from New York and got her start in a cappella in 2004 with Duke University's Lady Blue. She has been an active member of the a cappella community ever since, working for CASA in various roles, judging at Varsity Vocals events, performing at festivals across the... Read More →
avatar for Shane Ardell

Shane Ardell

Director of Technology, CASA
Shane Ardell splits her time between Atlanta, GA and Summit County, CO. She is on the CASA Core Events Team and the Board of Directors as Director of Technology. An engineer at heart, Shane spends most of her time tinkering around with new toys and figuring out how things work, and... Read More →


Saturday February 8, 2020 10:10am - 11:00am PST
SMHS Innovation 301

10:10am PST

Circle Singing
50 minutes of sound and stillness, spanning from soulful dance party to sound-bath, all through the power of your voice joined with others'. By you, for you.

Instructors
avatar for Tracy LJ Robertson

Tracy LJ Robertson

Instructor, Vocal Bloom
Vocalist, educator, and vocal percussionist Tracy LJ Robertson (he/him) enjoys working in a variety of musical settings. While studying at Berklee College of Music he performed in ensembles of global influence, from Balkan to contemporary Indian, to Latin, to western classical and... Read More →
avatar for Paola Munda

Paola Munda

"My mission in life is not merely to survive, but to thrive, and to do so with some passion, some compassion, some humor and some style." (MAYA ANGELOU) This quote summarizes what's behind every artistic creation that comes from Paola and it's reflected in her art, as a songwriter... Read More →


Saturday February 8, 2020 10:10am - 11:00am PST
SMHS Innovation 215

10:10am PST

Zen and the Art of Soundchecks
You've spent months perfecting your set for LAAF, or ICCAs, or your spring show. But now it's show day and you have to factor in the sound system - the mics, the monitors, the subs - and everything you've worked on gets literally drowned out. How can you put on your best performance when you have to deal with this whole new element at the last minute? Let’s talk soundchecks - mic technique, efficient and effective communication with your engineer, dialing in a great VP sound, setting up monitors, and - most importantly - let’s talk about the things groups do that make or break on-mic performances. Bring your questions!

Instructors
avatar for Jeff Eames

Jeff Eames

Jeff began his a cappella career with the Cape Cod-based group the Hyannis Sound, after which he toured and performed with the Boston-based group Overboard. In 2012, after six years of live performance, he made the move to LA to pursue a career in audio production, both live and... Read More →


Saturday February 8, 2020 10:10am - 11:00am PST
SMHS Innovation 207

10:10am PST

Beatbox Soloing
Johnny Buffalo of Backtrack Vocals will break down the elements of creating a beatbox solo. Learn about how to structure a stand alone routine by incorporating beatboxing techniques alongside vocals and melody. In addition, learn how to take a beatbox solo within an arrangement as part of a larger group.

Instructors
avatar for Johnny Buffalo

Johnny Buffalo

Johnny's career in music started when he picked up the guitar at the age of 14. He performed with bands in high school before attending SUNY Fredonia for classical guitar and sound recording technology. It wasn't until his senior year of college that Johnny learned how to beatbox... Read More →


Saturday February 8, 2020 10:10am - 11:00am PST
SMHS Innovation 221

11:05am PST

Acabomb: Bare Rhythm
Acabomb times SUBJECT TO CHANGE

Saturday February 8, 2020 11:05am - 11:15am PST
Upstairs Quad outside of 211

11:20am PST

A Cappella in Diverse Genres
What puts the slap in a funk song, the sizzle in a salsa song, or the swagger in a rock song? In this interactive workshop we will break down the elements of musical genres that give them their unmistakable feel. By learning a few short arrangements, we’ll see how to capture that feel using only voices.

Instructors
avatar for Business Casual

Business Casual

Vocal band Business Casual combines elements of pop, jazz, and other genres to produce fresh a cappella versions of vintage chart toppers, today’s top 40 hits, and award-winning original songs. Featuring powerful leads, floor thumping bass, and sizzling beats, audiences can’t... Read More →


Saturday February 8, 2020 11:20am - 12:10pm PST
SMHS Innovation 217

11:20am PST

Emotional Intelligence in Leadership
In this class, group leaders will learn how to understand emotional intelligence in the context of a cappella group management. Learning how to set expectations/boundaries and delineate realistic group goals as a student director can be tricky. Students will take away practices on how to manage tension, how to better understand the emotional dynamic of a group, and how to create a community that cultivates positivity, unity and cohesion to set you and your group up for success.

Instructors
avatar for Lisa Hawkins

Lisa Hawkins

Founder/Business Manager, Pipeline Vocal Project
Lisa Hawkins is from Anchorage, AK and has been an active singer, arranger, choreographer, director and performer in the a cappella scene for ten years. She has been a part of leadership in various groups, including professional groups Cape Harmony, Revel and currently, Pipeline Vocal... Read More →


Saturday February 8, 2020 11:20am - 12:10pm PST
SMHS Innovation 213

11:20am PST

The Fences We Keep
The topic of healthy boundaries has become a bit of a buzz world in our culture. What exactly are boundaries, why are they important, and how can they help your group function in a more healthy way? Learn more about the relational 'fences'-- or boundaries -- that are essential to successful friendships in your a cappella group and beyond.

Instructors
avatar for Gina Deaton

Gina Deaton

Gina has a background in all things vocal music, and got involved in a cappella through a semi-professional group after college. After attending SoJam (ahem) many years ago, she fell in love with the community and started volunteering whenever possible. Gina produced an album of original... Read More →


Saturday February 8, 2020 11:20am - 12:10pm PST
SMHS Innovation 221

11:20am PST

Creating Vocal Textures
Using an exploratory and collaborative format, the singers of HIVE will demonstrate how to use your voice to create different textures, colors and shapes. Beginning with rhythm section, and adding vocal layers, HIVE creates a rich soundscape using only five voices. Topics will include groove, syllables, vowel shaping, nuance, dynamics, blend, harmony, dissonance and more!

Instructors
avatar for HIVE

HIVE

HIVE is a group of humans making music with just their voices and some crazy sound effects – all while trying to make the world a better place. All HIVE singers are also music educators and not only sing and perform, but also teach workshops on vocal music. Giving back to the musical... Read More →


Saturday February 8, 2020 11:20am - 12:10pm PST
SMHS Innovation 215

11:20am PST

Bass Singing Technique
Attendees will learn some tips and tricks for singing bass in an a cappella group, and especially useful microphone technique. Attendees will leave with a better understanding of how to provide a solid harmonic and rhythmic foundation for any a cappella group

Instructors
avatar for Jojo Otseidu

Jojo Otseidu

Jojo is a bass singer, vocal percussionist, director and arranger who studied at Ohio State University. Jojo served as Music Director of Ohio State's top a cappella group, The Ohio State of Mind, for two years. In 2017, he made history by leading The Ohio State of Mind to the final... Read More →


Saturday February 8, 2020 11:20am - 12:10pm PST
SMHS Innovation 207

12:15pm PST

Acabomb: Unstrumental
Acabomb times SUBJECT TO CHANGE

Saturday February 8, 2020 12:15pm - 12:25pm PST
Santa Monica High School - Centennial Quad

12:25pm PST

Acabomb: Echo
Acabomb times SUBJECT TO CHANGE

Saturday February 8, 2020 12:25pm - 12:35pm PST
Santa Monica High School - Centennial Quad

12:35pm PST

Acabomb: Edison Varsity Choir
Acabomb times SUBJECT TO CHANGE

Saturday February 8, 2020 12:35pm - 12:45pm PST
Santa Monica High School - Centennial Quad

12:40pm PST

Masterclass: Abbe Road X Evan Lee
Masterclass pairings SUBJECT TO CHANGE

Instructors
avatar for Evan Lee

Evan Lee

With a passion for vocal directing and outstanding entertainment, Evan began his contemporary a cappella journey in his first semester at Berklee College of Music with Upper Structure in the Fall of 2016. He quickly became Music Director, and over the course of two years, he transformed... Read More →


Saturday February 8, 2020 12:40pm - 1:30pm PST
SMHS Innovation 303

12:40pm PST

Masterclass: Aerodynamix X Business Casual
Masterclass pairings SUBJECT TO CHANGE

Instructors
avatar for Business Casual

Business Casual

Vocal band Business Casual combines elements of pop, jazz, and other genres to produce fresh a cappella versions of vintage chart toppers, today’s top 40 hits, and award-winning original songs. Featuring powerful leads, floor thumping bass, and sizzling beats, audiences can’t... Read More →


Saturday February 8, 2020 12:40pm - 1:30pm PST
SMHS Innovation 207

12:40pm PST

Masterclass: Bare Rhythm X Backtrack
Masterclass pairings SUBJECT TO CHANGE

Instructors
avatar for Backtrack

Backtrack

Backtrack is a 5-person pop vocal group based in New York City. Their exciting arrangements transform familiar tunes and showcase the top-notch vocal (and beatboxing) abilities of all of the members. The group takes the stage around the nation at performing arts centers, corporate... Read More →


Saturday February 8, 2020 12:40pm - 1:30pm PST
SMHS Innovation 215

12:40pm PST

Masterclass: BisCaydence X David Sager
Masterclass pairings SUBJECT TO CHANGE

Saturday February 8, 2020 12:40pm - 1:30pm PST
SMHS Innovation 305

12:40pm PST

Masterclass: Clair de Lune X Lisa Hawkins/Daniel Wolfert
Masterclass pairings SUBJECT TO CHANGE

Saturday February 8, 2020 12:40pm - 1:30pm PST
SMHS Innovation 308

12:40pm PST

Masterclass: Echo X Gina Deaton
Masterclass pairings SUBJECT TO CHANGE

Saturday February 8, 2020 12:40pm - 1:30pm PST
SMHS Innovation 304

12:40pm PST

Masterclass: Mind the Gap X HIVE
Masterclass pairings SUBJECT TO CHANGE

Instructors
avatar for HIVE

HIVE

HIVE is a group of humans making music with just their voices and some crazy sound effects – all while trying to make the world a better place. All HIVE singers are also music educators and not only sing and perform, but also teach workshops on vocal music. Giving back to the musical... Read More →


Saturday February 8, 2020 12:40pm - 1:30pm PST
SMHS Innovation 217

12:40pm PST

Masterclass: Squad Harmonix X Matt Gagnon
Masterclass pairings SUBJECT TO CHANGE

Saturday February 8, 2020 12:40pm - 1:30pm PST
SMHS Innovation 221

12:40pm PST

Masterclass: Tritones X Tom Keys
Masterclass pairings SUBJECT TO CHANGE

Saturday February 8, 2020 12:40pm - 1:30pm PST
SMHS Innovation 306

12:40pm PST

Masterclass: Unstrumental X Bevin Abbe
Masterclass pairings SUBJECT TO CHANGE

Instructors
avatar for Bevin Abbe

Bevin Abbe

Performing Art Department Chair and Vocal Music Director, Santa Susana High School
Bevin Abbe is the Performing Arts Department Chair and Vocal Music director at Santa Susana High School in Simi Valley, CA. She received her Bachelors of Music in Music Education, as well as her teaching credential from San Diego State University. The five vocal groups, and Musical... Read More →


Saturday February 8, 2020 12:40pm - 1:30pm PST
SMHS Innovation 213

12:45pm PST

Acabomb: FUSE
Acabomb times SUBJECT TO CHANGE

Saturday February 8, 2020 12:45pm - 12:55pm PST
Santa Monica High School - Centennial Quad

12:55pm PST

Acabomb: BYU Beyond Measure
Acabomb times SUBJECT TO CHANGE

Saturday February 8, 2020 12:55pm - 1:05pm PST
Santa Monica High School - Centennial Quad

1:05pm PST

Acabomb: Rhymes with Orange
Acabomb times SUBJECT TO CHANGE

Saturday February 8, 2020 1:05pm - 1:15pm PST
Santa Monica High School - Centennial Quad

1:30pm PST

Masterclass: Bruin Harmony X Grayson Villanueva
Masterclass pairings SUBJECT TO CHANGE

Instructors
avatar for Grayson Villanueva

Grayson Villanueva

Founder, Grayson V LLC
Grayson Villanueva is an award-winning a cappella arranger, audio engineer, and videographer. Getting his start as the founder of 2011-2012 Uniting Voices (UC Irvine) and the professional vocal group #FOURTY4B (2014 LA Harmony Sweepstakes Champions, 2014 Kollaboration LA Finalists... Read More →


Saturday February 8, 2020 1:30pm - 2:20pm PST
SMHS Innovation 215

1:30pm PST

Masterclass: BYU Beyond Measure X Jacob Browning
Masterclass pairings SUBJECT TO CHANGE

Saturday February 8, 2020 1:30pm - 2:20pm PST
SMHS Innovation 304

1:30pm PST

Masterclass: Edison Varsity Choir X Joshua Barroll / Alana Weiss
Masterclass pairings SUBJECT TO CHANGE

Instructors
avatar for Joshua Barroll

Joshua Barroll

Calabasas High School
Joshua Barroll has been the director of the music program at Calabasas High School in Southern California since 1997. He earned his Bachelor's Degree in Music Education and Percussion Performance from Boston University as well as a Master's Degree in Music Education from Northwestern... Read More →
avatar for Alana Weiss

Alana Weiss

Alana Weiss is a private voice and performance coach (alanavoice.com) and, alongside Joshua Barroll, is the co-director of the award winning Calabasas High School A Cappella Program. Alana received her Bachelor of Arts Degree from the University of California, Santa Barbara, where she majored in Dramatic Art with an emphasis in Directing. She was... Read More →


Saturday February 8, 2020 1:30pm - 2:20pm PST
SMHS Innovation 213

1:30pm PST

Masterclass: FUSE X Sarah Mercedes Zorrilla-Bossio
Masterclass pairings SUBJECT TO CHANGE

Instructors
avatar for Sarah Mercedes

Sarah Mercedes

Sarah Mercedes is from Orlando, Fl and resides in Boston, Ma. Her a cappella journey originally began at the University of Central Florida where she was a founding member of all-female group, KeyHarmony. After her studies at UCF, she began studying voice at Berklee College of Music... Read More →


Saturday February 8, 2020 1:30pm - 2:20pm PST
SMHS Innovation 221

1:30pm PST

Masterclass: Lounge Lizards X Maxwell Byun / Brandon Tai
Masterclass pairings SUBJECT TO CHANGE

Instructors
avatar for Maxwell Byun

Maxwell Byun

Maxwell Byun and Brandon Tai are the powerhouse rhythm section from the semi-professional group, Seconds Apart (formerly known as COLLAB). Both instructors come from a background of competitive collegiate and post-collegiate a cappella groups. Specializing in EDM-style arranging and... Read More →
avatar for Brandon Tai

Brandon Tai

Maxwell Byun and Brandon Tai are the powerhouse rhythm section from the semi-professional group, Seconds Apart (formerly known as COLLAB). Both instructors come from a background of competitive collegiate and post-collegiate a cappella groups. Specializing in EDM-style arranging and... Read More →


Saturday February 8, 2020 1:30pm - 2:20pm PST
SMHS Innovation 308

1:30pm PST

Masterclass: Medleys X Andy Deagan
Masterclass pairings SUBJECT TO CHANGE

Instructors
avatar for Andy Degan

Andy Degan

A singer, arranger, and educator hailing from Bristol, CT Andy Degan has passionately pursued a diverse and well-rounded understanding of music and all of its elements. His early professional career began in the worlds of choral music and Contemporary A Cappella. Since then, Mr. Degan has... Read More →


Saturday February 8, 2020 1:30pm - 2:20pm PST
SMHS Innovation 305

1:30pm PST

Masterclass: OverTones X Paola Munda
Masterclass pairings SUBJECT TO CHANGE

Saturday February 8, 2020 1:30pm - 2:20pm PST
SMHS Innovation 207

1:30pm PST

Masterclass: Rhymes with Orange X Beth Rhode
Masterclass pairings SUBJECT TO CHANGE

Instructors
avatar for Beth Rohde

Beth Rohde

Music Director, Coast Music
Beth Rohde is a singer, educator and music director. She earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Vocal Performance and Music Production from Berklee College of Music, and a Master’s Degree in Jazz Studies from USC where she was awarded a full-tuition Ella Fitzgerald Foundation Scholarship... Read More →


Saturday February 8, 2020 1:30pm - 2:20pm PST
SMHS Innovation 306

1:30pm PST

Masterclass: Take It SLO X Nathan Heldman
Masterclass pairings SUBJECT TO CHANGE

Instructors
avatar for Nathan Heldman

Nathan Heldman

Nathan Heldman is an arranger, director, vocalist, and pianist based in Los Angeles. He got his start in A Cappella in the SoCal VoCals, where he music directed and co-arranged their 2015 ICCA winning set. Under his direction the group performed at the White House, toured Hong Kong... Read More →


Saturday February 8, 2020 1:30pm - 2:20pm PST
SMHS Innovation 303

1:30pm PST

Masterclass: Upper Structure X Rob Dietz
Masterclass pairings SUBJECT TO CHANGE

Instructors
avatar for Rob Dietz

Rob Dietz

Founder/Director, A Cappella Academy
Rob Dietz (he/him) is a multiple CARA winning producer who has been arranging, performing, and critiquing contemporary a cappella music for over ten years. His career began in high school as director of the critically acclaimed group Ascending Height, with whom he produced the first... Read More →


Saturday February 8, 2020 1:30pm - 2:20pm PST
SMHS Innovation 217

1:35pm PST

Acabomb: Aerodynamix
Acabomb times SUBJECT TO CHANGE

Saturday February 8, 2020 1:35pm - 1:45pm PST
Upstairs Quad outside of 211

1:45pm PST

Acabomb: BisCaydence
Acabomb times SUBJECT TO CHANGE

Saturday February 8, 2020 1:45pm - 1:55pm PST
Upstairs Quad outside of 211

1:55pm PST

Acabomb: Clair De Lune A Cappella
Acabomb times SUBJECT TO CHANGE

Saturday February 8, 2020 1:55pm - 2:05pm PST
Upstairs Quad outside of 211

2:05pm PST

Acabomb: Abbe Road
Acabomb times SUBJECT TO CHANGE

Saturday February 8, 2020 2:05pm - 2:15pm PST
Upstairs Quad outside of 211

2:20pm PST

Acabomb: OverTones
Saturday February 8, 2020 2:20pm - 2:30pm PST
Upstairs Quad outside of 211

2:30pm PST

Arranging: Less is More
Love to arrange, but feel like you have too many ideas? Or don’t know where to start? Learn how to simplify your process of arranging, and produce audience-accessible arrangements. Find your voice through useful recording and notation techniques, and explore structures and formulas that help to better translate your creative energy.

Instructors
avatar for Matthew Gagnon

Matthew Gagnon

Matt Gagnon is a music director and vocal arranger based in Miami, Florida. He pools together influences from many areas of music, from dance/electronic producers to Broadway writers to film score composers. The 22-year-old currently arranges for many high school and collegiate a... Read More →


Saturday February 8, 2020 2:30pm - 3:20pm PST
SMHS Innovation 217

2:30pm PST

Directing 101: It's More Than Just the Music
What’s the ultimate goal for your group? From rehearsal rooms to the big stages, make every moment special this year. Learn the ins and outs of running a successful rehearsal, becoming an entertaining group and knowing the importance of the audience. Create memorable moments and unbreakable bonds because it’s more than just the music!

Instructors
avatar for Evan Lee

Evan Lee

With a passion for vocal directing and outstanding entertainment, Evan began his contemporary a cappella journey in his first semester at Berklee College of Music with Upper Structure in the Fall of 2016. He quickly became Music Director, and over the course of two years, he transformed... Read More →


Saturday February 8, 2020 2:30pm - 3:20pm PST
SMHS Innovation 213

2:30pm PST

What's in a Song?
Ever try to bring a song alive, but words like "crescendo", "mezzo-piano", and "staccato" aren't getting the job done? Maybe you're not sure what to do with your hands and face when performing a cappella music? If you've ever felt like this, then this class is perfect for you! In this interactive workshop, we'll utilize storytelling techniques in order to not only take your acappella performances to new heights, but also learn to effectively capture an audience to deliver the most memorable performance possible. Bring your voice and creativity to this lively class!

Instructors
avatar for Jacob Browning

Jacob Browning

Jake Browning is an arranger, director, and former of the Arizona State University TEMPEtations co-ed acappella group. The TEMPEtations won 1st place at the 2018 ICCA Southwest Quarterfinals competition, where he also was the recipient of the Best Arrangement award. Jake continues... Read More →


Saturday February 8, 2020 2:30pm - 3:20pm PST
SMHS Innovation 221

2:30pm PST

Arrangement Reading Class
Let’s sing! We’ll quickly learn a few easy/intermediate arrangement samples and make some music quickly. This class is designed to be beneficial to all skill levels. Whether you are a strong sight-reader or a complete novice, we’ll keep everyone engaged and working on something! The more the merrier!

Instructors
avatar for Andy Degan

Andy Degan

A singer, arranger, and educator hailing from Bristol, CT Andy Degan has passionately pursued a diverse and well-rounded understanding of music and all of its elements. His early professional career began in the worlds of choral music and Contemporary A Cappella. Since then, Mr. Degan has... Read More →


Saturday February 8, 2020 2:30pm - 3:20pm PST
SMHS Innovation 215

2:30pm PST

Videocappella
Breakdown how to bring video into your regular a cappella routine. We'll review how best to use the team and gear you have, manage and store the content you shoot, produce it with video editing software and prepare it for posting on all platforms. In addition, we'll break down and provide you resources on how best to plan out a music video or other video project for you a cappella group.

Instructors
avatar for Rachel Chalhoub

Rachel Chalhoub

Event Media, CASA
Rachel is a magical forest mermaid who plays with photos and videos, can speak beatbox, and once owned a looper. Alumnus of FSU's All-Night Yahtzee & AcaBelles, Rachel cannot escape the pull of a cappella. She's done a bunch of stuff like The Sing-Off, Deke Sharon's Too Many Notes... Read More →


Saturday February 8, 2020 2:30pm - 3:20pm PST
SMHS Innovation 207

3:20pm PST

Acabomb: Lounge Lizards
Acabomb times SUBJECT TO CHANGE

Saturday February 8, 2020 3:20pm - 3:30pm PST
Upstairs Quad outside of 211

3:30pm PST

Acabomb: Tritones
Saturday February 8, 2020 3:30pm - 3:40pm PST
Upstairs Quad outside of 211

3:40pm PST

Sonic Branding: How to Make Your Group Sound Unique
Tired of the popular approach to vocal harmony? Want to make your group's music stand out? In this class, Sing-Off arranger Rob Dietz will guide you through a world of vocal possibilities to answer the question: what gives a group their "signature sound." Learn what's possible, explore how to use it in your arranging, and discover what makes your group unique!

Instructors
avatar for Rob Dietz

Rob Dietz

Founder/Director, A Cappella Academy
Rob Dietz (he/him) is a multiple CARA winning producer who has been arranging, performing, and critiquing contemporary a cappella music for over ten years. His career began in high school as director of the critically acclaimed group Ascending Height, with whom he produced the first... Read More →


Saturday February 8, 2020 3:40pm - 4:30pm PST
SMHS Innovation 217

3:40pm PST

Know Your Group
This workshop will be led by Joshua Barroll and Alana Weiss, the directing team behind Calabasas High School’s three time LAAF champions, Unstrumental, and renowned all-female ensemble, Bare Rhythm.  Learn how to get the best out of your group along with strategies for song selection, arranging, choreography, and rehearsal techniques. This class will include live demonstrations by Unstrumental.

Instructors
avatar for Joshua Barroll

Joshua Barroll

Calabasas High School
Joshua Barroll has been the director of the music program at Calabasas High School in Southern California since 1997. He earned his Bachelor's Degree in Music Education and Percussion Performance from Boston University as well as a Master's Degree in Music Education from Northwestern... Read More →
avatar for Alana Weiss

Alana Weiss

Alana Weiss is a private voice and performance coach (alanavoice.com) and, alongside Joshua Barroll, is the co-director of the award winning Calabasas High School A Cappella Program. Alana received her Bachelor of Arts Degree from the University of California, Santa Barbara, where she majored in Dramatic Art with an emphasis in Directing. She was... Read More →


Saturday February 8, 2020 3:40pm - 4:30pm PST
SMHS Innovation 213

3:40pm PST

Barbershop 101
Come and experience the characteristics that differentiate the Barbershop style!

Instructors
avatar for Laura Pallas

Laura Pallas

Laura Pallas has earned the title of "Master Director" of the Santa Monica Chorus, a chapter of Sweet Adelines International. She is an accomplished musician, performer, and regional Champion and international competitor who specializes in vocal production and technique. She holds... Read More →
avatar for Timari Thorstenson

Timari Thorstenson

Timari Thorstenson is a vocalist, musician, performer, director, music educator, and composer/arranger. Her combined love for music and interest in mental, emotional and spiritual wellbeing led her to earn a degree in Psychology and Music with an emphasis in Vocal Performance from... Read More →


Saturday February 8, 2020 3:40pm - 4:30pm PST
SMHS Innovation 221

3:40pm PST

Songwriting Unlocked
Do you have an interest in writing original songs but feel intimidated and overwhelmed by the prospect? In this class, we'll talk about overcoming hurdles to songwriting, discuss some key ideas and tips, and write a song together as a group. The world needs your voice and your creative presence. Come unlock your inner songwriter!

Instructors
avatar for Gina Deaton

Gina Deaton

Gina has a background in all things vocal music, and got involved in a cappella through a semi-professional group after college. After attending SoJam (ahem) many years ago, she fell in love with the community and started volunteering whenever possible. Gina produced an album of original... Read More →


Saturday February 8, 2020 3:40pm - 4:30pm PST
SMHS Innovation 215

3:40pm PST

Utilizing your Beatboxer to their Full Potential
There are significant differences between Vocal Percussion and Beatboxing that many people don't fully understand. We hope to clarify the difference between the two, and also show how an arranger/music director can craft an arrangement specifically for the style of their Vocal Percussionist/Beatboxer to allow them to flourish without stealing the spotlight from the rest of the group.

Instructors
avatar for Maxwell Byun

Maxwell Byun

Maxwell Byun and Brandon Tai are the powerhouse rhythm section from the semi-professional group, Seconds Apart (formerly known as COLLAB). Both instructors come from a background of competitive collegiate and post-collegiate a cappella groups. Specializing in EDM-style arranging and... Read More →
avatar for Brandon Tai

Brandon Tai

Maxwell Byun and Brandon Tai are the powerhouse rhythm section from the semi-professional group, Seconds Apart (formerly known as COLLAB). Both instructors come from a background of competitive collegiate and post-collegiate a cappella groups. Specializing in EDM-style arranging and... Read More →


Saturday February 8, 2020 3:40pm - 4:30pm PST
SMHS Innovation 207

7:00pm PST

A Cappella Video Awards Presentation
Saturday February 8, 2020 7:00pm - 7:30pm PST
El Segundo Performing Arts Center 640 Main St, El Segundo, CA 90245

7:30pm PST

Professional Showcase
Performers
avatar for Backtrack

Backtrack

Backtrack is a 5-person pop vocal group based in New York City. Their exciting arrangements transform familiar tunes and showcase the top-notch vocal (and beatboxing) abilities of all of the members. The group takes the stage around the nation at performing arts centers, corporate... Read More →
avatar for Business Casual

Business Casual

Vocal band Business Casual combines elements of pop, jazz, and other genres to produce fresh a cappella versions of vintage chart toppers, today’s top 40 hits, and award-winning original songs. Featuring powerful leads, floor thumping bass, and sizzling beats, audiences can’t... Read More →
avatar for HIVE

HIVE

HIVE is a group of humans making music with just their voices and some crazy sound effects – all while trying to make the world a better place. All HIVE singers are also music educators and not only sing and perform, but also teach workshops on vocal music. Giving back to the musical... Read More →
avatar for Street Corner Renaissance

Street Corner Renaissance

These cats can flat out sing! Their infectious energy and versatile show-set offers audiences an authentic/interactive street corner experience; combining the polish of a seasoned Las Vegas act replete with humor and masterful stage craftsmanship (Think Rat Pack with smooth harmony... Read More →


Saturday February 8, 2020 7:30pm - 10:30pm PST
El Segundo Performing Arts Center 640 Main St, El Segundo, CA 90245
 
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