Catholic University Redline

Redline is a top notch mixed group out of Catholic University. Members of the group took the time to answer questions from The A cappella Blog.

ACB: Where did the group name Redline come from?

Redline (RL): When Redline was first founded it was originally called "CUAcappella" (pronounced "quackappella"). That soon changed into the "Cardinal Sins", which was then eventually replaced by "Redline". The DC metro line that stops on our campus is the Red Line! Our whole student body uses the metro so it's something recognizable to them.

ACB: Are there any unique traditions or pieces of history attached to your group?

RL: Every new member of the group receives a pair of red converse chucks which we wear to every concert! We also have a tradition of going around to each of the new members rooms on the night we accept them and "kidnapping" them for a group bonding session. It's a lot of fun and a great way to get to know everyone right away.

ACB: How does Redline go about recruiting new members?

RL: This year we advertised ALOT. We put flyers up in all the dorm building, student restaurant and student center. We created a Facebook group and posted audition notices on our website. We also worked a lot with word of mouth this year. Current members helped man an audition sign up table in the student center lobby, wore their chucks the whole week before auditions and promoted Redline!

ACB: How does your group go about deciding which songs to add to its repertoire? Who is responsible for arrangements?

RL: We have a huge repertoire book that the officers look through over the summer. This year we also wanted to make it a group effort so we asked for suggestions from all the current members. We look at what people want, what songs are popular and what songs lend themselves best to a cappella arrangements. We have a few people responsible for the arrangements. Many of the older songs that we pull from our archive binder are done by alumnae. Some of the newer songs we are able to find arrangements through our own personal collections. If we are unable to find them, we have them custom made by various arrangers both on campus and off.

ACB: If you were to describe Redline in just three words, what words would you use?

RL: Enthusiastic, Ambitious, Close-Knit.

ACB: Is there anything else you would like to share with the readers of The A Cappella Blog?

RL: We find it important to balance work with fun so that we get things accomplished, but in a non-stressful environment. That way we feel good about our work and don't all hate each other! We try to find opportunities to hang out as a group outside of rehearsal so that we can build our friendships!