Singing groups seek to recruit fresh voices

Hark the sound of Tar Heel voices. All-male, all-female and co-ed a cappella groups around the University are warming up for a busy year with auditions beginning this week.

Clef Hangers

The Clef Hangers, the first all-male a cappella group at the University, are widely known not only for their rendition of songs but also for their onstage charm.

But it is not all fun and games. With a repertoire including everything from James Taylor to Lil' Jon, the Clefs work hard to perfect their sound.

President David Mikush said in an e-mail that the Clefs demonstrate a work-hard, play-hard attitude.

Auditions began Aug. 28 and will continue through the end of today, with sign-up sheets available both in the Pit and in the Carolina Union.

Loreleis

Entering their 25th anniversary season, the Loreleis, one of the University's all-female a cappella groups, are excited to include a more popular repertoire this season.

"I think our main goal is to get a very diverse repertoire and take from every genre," said Lib Curlee, the group's business manager.

This season the group will look to expand its set by adding some more popular songs to the playlist, such as TLC's "Waterfalls" and The Rolling Stones' "Wild Horses."

"We can start singing and (the audience) will say, 'Oh, right, I know that song," Curlee said.

The Loreleis will wait to hold auditions until Sept. 12 and 13. They hope to use the extra time to introduce themselves to incoming freshmen.

Achordants

The Achordants, another all-male group, distinguish themselves from other a cappella groups on campus through their commitment to service projects.

Jed Wang, the group's president, explained that because the group began in 1873 as a service organization, members try to honor that tradition.

"We try to maintain our goal of doing every service gig free of charge," Wang said. "We help out the Campus Y a lot, and we did a Live 8 performance last year."

The 16-member group advertises a laid-back and comfortable atmosphere, stressing the importance of working hard and having fun.

Wang said the Achordants are looking to add talented singers to the group at their Aug. 30 and 31 auditions.

"We look for singing ability but also at their personality," Wang said.

Tar Heel Voices

Members of Tar Heel Voices, the University's oldest co-ed a cappella group, have been working hard to build a dynamic group and look forward to this year's additions.

With a new CD coming out this fall, group conductor Serah Frack stressed that it will be important for the group to come together quickly.

"We want to be as intense and good as possible," she said.

The group enjoys performing music that is popular and recognizable to the audience.

"We want to perform music that makes the audience enjoy themselves and that has musically interesting aspects," member Jamie Fritz said.

Tar Heel Voices will hold auditions for all parts Aug. 29 and 30.

Contact the Arts Editor at artsdesk@unc.edu.