Originals
On selected Thursdays, ACB Production Manager Mike Scalise makes his recommendations on a cappella performance in a DO and DON’T format.
DO: Sing more commonly known songs.
DON'T: Sing originals in competition.
Every so often, I see groups performing original songs at a competition. These songs, while nicely arranged and written, are oftentimes completely foreign to the audience. A cappella performances--especially when you aren't performing for a crowd of mostly friends and family--are about more than just a group's ability to be in tune or to hit that perfect note. It's about the whole package, including the group's ability to engage the audience. When thinking of song selections, groups should pick something that will both showcase their vocal talents as well as grab the attention of the audience.