Chicago a cappella to explore the ‘History of Harmony’ at April concerts

In April, Chicago a cappella will take audiences on a journey of the “History of Harmony.” The ensemble’s diverse repertoire showcases the rich history of vocal harmony from the early 20th century to today.

From barbershop quartets through doo-wop and boy bands, these layered musical sounds have permeated pop music and our entire culture.

The program is co-created and narrated by Deke Sharon, the heralded “Father of Contemporary A Cappella.” Sharon was the music director of “Pitch Perfect,” the popular 2012 musical motion picture about an all-girl a cappella group.

“I'm super excited about teaming up with Chicago a cappella for this concert! Imagine hearing these world-class voices singing these well-known pop harmonies. It's going to be epic,” Sharon said. “And we're not just stopping at the tunes – we're throwing in some cool stories about this music's history. Oh, and I've got plans to get everyone in the crowd singing along too!"

Mark your calendar for the History of Harmony on the following dates:

Sunday, April 21, 2024, 3 p.m.

Harris Theater for Music and Dance, 205 E. Randolph St., Chicago, IL 60601

Sunday, April 28, 2024, 3 p.m.

McAninch Arts Center, 425 Fawell Blvd., Glen Ellyn, IL 60137

On-Demand Concert Replay

A full on-demand concert replay will be available for streaming during the week of May 6, 2024.

About History of Harmony

This much anticipated concert presents a dazzling collection of a cappella arrangements that begin with early 20th century styles, including a barbershop quartet, a college glee song, and a tune by the famous German group the Comedian Harmonists (recently the subject of a new Broadway musical).

Then it moves through the decades of the 20th century. Beginning with the swinging harmonies of the 1930s and 1940s made famous by the Andrews Sisters, the Mills Brothers, and the Boswell Sisters, the program then journeys to the early days of rock and roll, with doo-wop and the vocal group balladeers of the 1950s.

Chicago a cappella then turns its talents to the 1960s with the soulful, urban vocals of Motown’s pop vocal groups as well as the “fun in the sun” yet often touchingly sentimental harmonies of the Beach Boys. Moving to the 1970s, the ensemble tributes the iconic pop vocal harmonies of the Carpenters, Eagles, the Bee Gees, and others.

As “History of Harmony” moves to the 1980s, the ensemble’s mesmerizing vocal gymnastics will be delightfully on display. The jazz stylings of Manhattan Transfer and Bobby McFerrin are saluted as well as the intricate vocal styles of South Africa — isicathamiya and mbube — as performed by groups like Ladysmith Black Mambazo.

Moving to the 1990s — a decade of boy bands and girl bands — the ensemble will “get down” with the fun, danceable grooves from Boyz II Men, Backstreet Boys, and Spice Girls.

The concert will end with the finale from “Pitch Perfect.” The ensemble will present a medley Deke Sharon arranged to be performed in the film by the renowned a cappella group, the Barden Bellas from Barden University.

Although a simplified arrangement was published, Chicago a cappella will be the first ever to do the whole thing live, exactly as the Bellas learned it over a decade ago.

For the full program lineup, information about the vocalists and to buy tickets, visit www.chicagoacappella.org/concert-event/history-of-harmony/.

About Chicago a cappella

Chicago a cappella is a dynamic ensemble comprising 10 talented singers who passionately celebrate every music genre. With remarkable voices, charismatic personalities, and an unwavering commitment to ensemble singing, their creative concert experiences forge deep connections with audiences, inspiring both awe and laughter.

Founded in the early '90s, Chicago a cappella has traversed the nation, collaborating with esteemed guest artists, and earning accolades for their CDs. More than just an ensemble, Chicago a cappella is an organization dedicated to advancing the art and appreciation of ensemble singing. Initiatives such as the Youth Choral Festival, ¡Cantaré! Chicago, and HerVoice underscore their commitment to inclusivity and mentorship.

John William Trotter assumed the role of artistic director in July 2020, following a successful tenure as a guest music director since 2013. An acclaimed choral leader, he fosters connections between musicians and audiences, celebrating the transformative power of music in human identity.

Stay connected with Chicago a cappella on social media: