University of Maine Renaissance
Renaissance is a top notch all-female group out of the University of Maine. Molly Webster took the time to answer questions from A Cappella Blog Content Manager Mike Chin.
The A Cappella Blog (ACB): Renaissance finished first in its ICCA quarterfinal in 2007. What was it like to achieve this in front of a “home crowd” at the University of Maine?
Molly Webster(MW):It was such an amazing experience. We had put so much work into our set and had come such a huge distance in a fairly limited amount of time, we were just so honored. Oh, man, it was fantastic to perform here at UMAINE and to have such great success. The University's support means a great deal to us.
ACB: What can listeners expect from Renaissance’s newest CD, Illuminate?
MW: Illuminate really has a wide variety of styles and genres. You can expect an eclectic meshing of pop, folk, rock, R&B and perhaps even a little rap. It's got it all.
ACB: Are there any unique traditions or pieces of history attached to your group?
MW: Ha! Actually before we perform, we all gather in a circle and put our hands in the center on top of one another and make a loud, slightly offensive, farting noise... I dunno... it's pretty fantastic, though.
ACB: How does Renaissance go about recruiting new members?
MW: We are actually a sub-group from the 80 person auditioned choir at UMaine, The University Singers. This meaning that one has to be in Singers to audition for Renaissance, so our recruitment is really limited within that group, which, by the way, is an incredibly talented group of people. We do tour area schools in the state of Maine, and inform them of the various groups at UMaine, and how great of a school UMaine is in general, so that's an effective recruitment tool as well. We basically just get out there, and let people know what we are about.
ACB: What is the audition process like for your group?
MW: The audition process for Renaissance is moderately laid back, as we are all pretty chill... we like to make people feel as much at ease as possible, so we can really get to know them. The auditioner is asked to prepare a solo to be sung a cappella (obviously!), they are then asked to sing backup vocals on a piece of our choosing, and to also solo over the group to test for blend, balance, etc. Their range is also tested and they are encouraged to try some Vocal Percussion. We also try to get a feel for their personality because it's more than just a voice we are looking for...we want the whole package!
ACB: What is your favorite song to perform with Renaissance?
MW: My favorite song to sing with the ladies of 'Sance is probably "Fiddle and Drum". This piece is just so incredibly forceful and it holds such a profound message in its simplicity that is so relevant for today. Ahh...I love it! “Just for Now” and “Crazy” are always a lot of fun too.
If you would like to learn more about Renaissance, you can check them out online at http://www.umaine.edu/renaissance.