A Cappella Group Takes Third at Regional Competition

North Central has three student-run a cappella groups, and one of them recently made history by placing third at the International Championship of Collegiate A Cappella (ICCA) Great Lakes Quarterfinal 1.

With 18 students from 16 different majors, the group Sonata Problem traveled to the University of Chicago on January 25 to compete against 10 other schools from around the Midwest. Founded by students in 2012, Sonata Problem had never placed at ICCA before this year’s competition.

“Being a part of this experience with Sonata Problem was hands down one of the best memories of my career,” said David Lange ’25. “Seeing everyone’s hard work over the years resulting in the highest finish in group history was the most rewarding experience. I cannot wait to see all the great things they will do in the future.”  

A cappella is a style of singing done completely using the voice without any instrumental accompaniment. A cappella arrangements consist of multiple vocal parts singing different harmonies plus a vocal percussionist who creates the rhythm for the group.

The group welcomed 11 new members this year, including Jaydon Brown ’25. “I’ve enjoyed the community we have built, and the separation we are able to develop between being professional, but also still caring about each other,” Brown said.

The group has been led this year by Megan Sinnaeve ’26, president and co-choreographer; David Lange ’25, music director; Noah Peake ’26, co-music director and treasurer; Emma Akers ’26, co-choreographer, public relations coordinator and secretary; and Annalise Bossler ’25, special event coordinator.

Leading up to the competition, the group met every day to rehearse in the College’s Wentz Concert Hall.

“Being a part of the creative process for ICCA was a challenge yet so rewarding,” said Akers. “I learned a lot about myself and how to be the best leader I can be while also trying to keep the process as fun as possible. I’m immensely proud of the result and am excited to continue assisting the group.”

The group spent an entire day on the University of Chicago campus, mingling with other groups and preparing for competition. Their performance featured songs including “Movement” by Hozier, “Doomsday” by Lizzy McAlpine and “Hammer to the Heart” by Teddy Swims.

Sonata Problem placed third behind groups from the University of Wisconsin-Madison and the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee. Other competitors included student groups from the University of Chicago, Loyola University Chicago and University of Illinois Chicago.

North Central College has two additional a cappella groups that any student can join. Like Sonata Problem, Final Cut competed in a Great Lakes Quarterfinal at ICCA this year. Tonacity is an all-treble group. Learn more about the a cappella groups, and other music and art organizations on campus, here.

Watch Sonata Problem’s award-winning performance here.

Photos by Dominick Gramarosso '25.