Syracuse University Orange Appeal
Orange Appeal thrives as the only all-male a cappella group at Syracuse University. The men competed in the International Championship of Collegiate A Cappella for the first time in 2006, and will be returning to competition, in ICCA quarterfinal action tonight in Setnor Auditorium on the Syracuse University campus.
Orange Appeal musical director Malcolm Merriweather took the time to answer questions from A Cappella Blog co-founder Mike Chin.
A Cappella Blog (ACB): Last year, Orange Appeal (OA) competed in the International Championship of Collegiate A Cappella for the first time and achieved great success, taking first place honors at the quarterfinal level. What did this success mean to the group?
Malcolm Merriweather (MM): Our victory at the quarterfinal level last year was a huge milestone for the group. It was the culmination of months of work, and years of building up the group. Our success at the competition has set a precedent for our group that does not accept mediocrity. The experience has given us confidence, and spirit to achieve great things. The most important thing was the bonding and teamwork that occurred that day.
ACB: OA had the unique honor of getting to perform its rendition of "Movin' Out" in front of the song's originator, Billy Joel, at Syracuse University's commencement ceremony this past fall. What was this experience like? Do you think Billy enjoyed it?
MM: It was truly an honor to sing for at commencement for Billy Joel. We had extra rehearsals to fine tune the music to make it perfect. The hardest part was adjusting to the acoustics in the [Carrier] Dome. At first we were a little intimidated by the reverberations, but in the end, I think the resonant space made our performance more effective. Billy did enjoy our rendition! He told us after the ceremony where he shook all of our hands and congratulated us on our success.
ACB: OA has developed a standard pattern of dress for its shows, with the guys clad in black collar shirts, ties, jeans, and Chucks. Any reason for or tradition behind this "uniform?"
MM: This configuration was decided upon by the executive board of Orange Appeal. Ian Millikin, now president, suggested adding chucks for individuality. Our whole doctrine was 'finding individuality within uniformity'. For example, everyone is wearing Chucks, but we all have chosen our own color. The black collar shirts and ties just jazz it up a little.
ACB: Describe a typical OA rehearsal (if there is such a thing!). How often do you guys practice and what do you do to achieve such success by the time you hit the stage? Do rehearsals change before a big show?
MM: Honestly, Orange Appeal rehearsals are pretty dysfunctional. We have a wealth of personalities and talent that contribute to a lot of non-musical antics. Everyone is a comedian in Orange Appeal so rehearsals are usually pretty funny. It's not uncommon for everyone to break out into laughter. One warning, though; you DO NOT want to use a rehearsal space after OA has been there for a while. Sixteen plus guys in an enclosed space does not produce a sweet smell. In fact, I've witnessed some of the foulest, festering, fragrances ever in my life during OA practice. Even through all of this, a lot of music making and hard effort is put forth.
ACB: What can we expect to see from OA in the future? Any new songs in the works? Any upcoming gigs of note?
MM: Orange Appeal has a pretty full semester. We have several new arrangements, including a Queen medley, "I Swear," "Because," and others. OA will also being performing traditional music written for men's chorus, including a stunning "Ave Maria" by Franz Biebl.
ACB: How does your group go about deciding which songs to add to its repertoire?
MM: Basically, our repertoire is decided by anyone who is willing to put in the effort to arrange a song. I've done arrangements of the National Anthem, Alma Mater, and Happy Birthday to use regularly, but our other songs are arranged at the whim of our members. I encourage people to arrange songs that add to the diversity of our rep, but, it's not required.
ACB: What would you say is the most important element to having a successful collegiate a cappella group?
MM: The most important element to having a successful group is dedication and the desire to make music. Members have to be dedicated enough to come to late night rehearsals and gigs. Musical talent and aptitude can be developed over time.
ACB: What drew you, personally, to collegiate a cappella in the first place?
MM: Personally, I used to love watching Orange Appeal sing at concerts. All of my friends were members so it only seemed fit that I should audition. I'm glad things worked out, I wouldn't change anything.
ACB: What is your favorite song to perform with OA?
MM: My favorite song is "Somewhere," not because I sing the solo, but because it can be so moving when we get it right!
If you would like to learn more about Orange Appeal, you can visit the group online at http://www.orangeappeal.net.