Life > September 29, 2005

By Sissie Strope

Contributing Reporter

To kick off Family Weekend festivities, the nationally acclaimed a cappella group Chapter 6 will perform at 8 p.m. Sept. 30 in Wait Chapel.

Their performance has been in the works since last winter when Student Union members stumbled across them at a conference in February, fell in love with the group and booked them immediately. 

Comprised of seven members, Chapter 6 evolved from a course at Millikin University in Decatur, Illinois.

Starting out as the premiere jazz a cappella ensemble on campus, the group grew to make their professional debut in 2001.

They are three-time Chicago Regional Harmony Sweepstakes Grand Champions and won the prestigious Grand Champion title at the 2004 National Harmony Sweepstakes. 

Aside from these major accomplishments, other honors have been awarded the group from organizations such as the Contemporary a Cappella Society, the Association for the Promotion of Campus Activities and the National Association for Campus Activities. Most recently, Chapter 6 was announced “Performing Group of the Year” at the 2005 A.P.C.A. National Convention.

Aside from earning impressive titles, the nationally acclaimed a cappella group has managed to gain a public following.

This following has developed through numerous performances on national and international television.

Some examples of past performances have been appearances on shows like ABC’s Good Morning America, as well as radio programs including The Kathy & Judd Show on WGN radio in Chicago.

So what can one expect to hear from such an accredited musical group? 

Obviously a talented delivery, but Chapter 6 is also known for their range in musical selection that can best be described as a comedy-infused blend of rock, pop, gospel and jazz. 

Appealing to audiences of all ages and musical tastes, the group is known for putting on a highly entertaining performance filled with energy and enthusiasm.

The show will feature a collection of music ranging from good old swing standards to pop/rock pieces, like their signature rendition of Queen’s “Bohemian Rhapsody.”

The performance promises to be a fantastic event, one that you will surely want to bring your parents to.

If seeing Chapter 6 alone isn’t enough reason to stop by the show, one of the university’s very own a cappella groups will be opening for Chapter 6. 

Auditions for the spot will be held on Sept. 29 by way of a “Selection Showcase,” during which the most qualified group will be chosen to head off the event. 

Student Union faculty adviser and Associate Director Kathy Arnett, as well as Brad Stephenson, alumnus ’05, will judge the audition. 

The groups that are not chosen will still perform 6:30-7:30 Sept. 30 on the Hearn plaza.

Each group will an allocated 15 minutes for their performance.

To accompany Chapter 6’s piece, “Ode to Krispy Kreme”, it would only be appropriate that free doughnuts be offered on the Quad.

These doughnuts have been provided by Krispy Kreme.

Student Union expects a large turnout for the event, as around 1100 tickets have already been sold. 

If you haven’t yet reserved your spot, tickets are $10 and will be on sale in the Benson University Ticket Office.

For more information, Chapter 6’s Web site is www.chapter6.com