The University of Florida Sedoctaves

The Sedoctaves are an all-female group out of the University of Florida. Members of The Sedoctaves took the time to answer questions from The A Cappella Blog.

The A Cappella Blog (ACB): As a relatively new group (founded in 2005), what challenges have The Sedoctaves faced in establishing themselves? What advice might you offer to other new ensembles, or musicians thinking about starting their own a cappella groups?

The Sedoctaves (TS):In a large university, which the University of Florida definitely is, we have several opportunities to perform on campus. We also have very active members, who are always looking for more opportunities and to broaden our contacts. We have had most of our issues trying to find paid performances; especially last year when they were crucial to our production of our CD.

I would advise new groups to make a lot of contacts with other a cappella groups around their campus and offer to open performances for them. Also, make sure to have a Public Relations Chair, whose only job was to find performances and competitions for us. Finally, I would tell them to develop a very clear constitution (or bylaws) so that every group member is very clear on what is expected of them. When you begin a group, there are so many individuals coming together to form your group, that at times, there is confusion as the responsibilities of members. That is extremely important.

ACB: As an all-female group, what advantages do you enjoy? What challenges does the nature of the group present?

TS: Well, we just need one dressing room! That's certainly a plus. But seriously, though, having all girls is amazing. The intensity of the vocals and the way that we interact with one another is wonderful. I would say that the challenges are mostly having a more full sound. With men and women, the sound is much more full. With women, we have to arrange differently and really make use of our wonderful Alto 2's, without putting them in an uncomfortably low range.

ACB: What is the audition process like for The Sedoctaves?

TS: Our auditions begin with several warm-ups used to determine the range of the auditionee. We ask them to read simple rhythm exercises (in common time) and expect them to have prepared a 30-45 second solo. These auditions take place in front of the music director and the president. Once the two of them decide who has a voice fit for our group, we have a callback audition with the entire group. All of the girls called back will attend a mock rehearsal where they will learn half of two songs. They work with the other members that are on their part and interact with the group. At the end of the "rehearsal", they will then perform these songs holding their own part against three older members, several times, always switching members. This is how we see if they can hear their part and hold their own in the group. Then, the auditionee's are dismissed and we, as a group, discuss who fit in well with our group. After we finish this session, the Executive board (Music Director, President, and Vice President) make the ultimate decision on who will be a new Sedoctave member.

ACB: What drew you, personally, to collegiate a cappella in the first place?

TS: In high school I was extremely involved with our music program. I performed in musicals, was the president of our Music school, and was a lead performer in our community opera house. I always loved all types of music and was familiar with a cappella when I came to college. As I became more interested in joining a performing group in college, I found The Sedoctaves and became obsessed with a cappella. A cappella is a performers dream! Dance, singing, creating music, beat boxing, everything that makes music what it is, created by your mouth and body. It is my favorite way to perform in a group, because with one part, the music falls apart, can be unrecognizable.

ACB: What is your favorite song to perform with The Sedoctaves, and why?

TS: Wow! That is very difficult. I would have to say that my personal favorite would have to be “Always Be My Baby” by Mariah Carey. It is my solo in the group and listening to all of the girls behind me and really feeling the music, it's incredible. I would say my favorite song to perform with the group would have to be “Buddy Holly” by Weezer. This song is so much fun! We have so much energy and we feed off of each other. Both of those are my favorite songs.

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

TS: I would love the readers to know how hard we have been working and will continue to work to be recognized in the a cappella community. Being an a cappella group is ever changing and requires a lot of discipline, a positive attitude, and a love for music. Be determined, never give up, and make your group a staple in your university!

You can learn more about The Sedoctaves at their official website here.