University of Florida Gestalt

In honor of the 2017 ICCA tournament, The A Cappella Blog pursued short interviews with competing groups to develop insights into why and how groups approach competition, and to get appropriately excited for the tremendous shows ahead of us.

What’s your group name and on what date is your group’s quarterfinal?

We are Gestalt--the whole is greater than the sum of its parts.

Our ICCA quarterfinal will be held on February 25 in Gainesville, FL (South region).

How long has your group been around? Have you competed before?

Our first rehearsal took place in August 2016, so this season will mark our ICCA debut!

Why are you competing this year? What does your group hope to accomplish or get out of the experience?

Gestalt was founded with the intention of flourishing in competition. Through this facet, we are creating artistic sets that will reach our niche audience—fans of collegiate a cappella. In doing so, we really seek to break the mold of contemporary a cappella by eliciting very dynamic and organic emotive responses from our audiences. Rather than expecting audiences to hear our own stories, we want our performances to allow others to tap into their own experiences through our music.

How is your group preparing for competition?

Drive, ambition, intention, and hard work!

If you were to describe your group, or the set your group is planning for competition with just three words, what would they be?

Beyond the archetype.

You can follow or contact Gestalt using the information below:

Website: www.gestaltacappella.com

Instagram: @gestaltacappella #dvdp

Feel free to send us an email at contact@gestaltacappella.com, too!