By Isabel Hebbron, Second Year, Comparative Literatures and Spanish
Have you ever watched Pitch Perfect (2012) and dreamt of performing with the Barden Bellas? Well, you’re in luck! Thanks to Bristol University’s fabulous a cappella scene, this may be a fantasy you can realise. With four gold accreditations awarded by the SU, Bristol’s A Cappella society is the perfect opportunity for both experienced and aspiring singers.
Whether you dream of competing like the Bellas or would rather perform in a more relaxed environment with your friends, Bristol’s A Cappella society is proving that you don’t need to be Anna Kendrick to find your place. The society has nine amazing different groups that accommodate to every singer! But what is being an a cappella member about and what does the society offer? How do you join? And is a cappella really as fun as Pitch Perfect makes it seem? Read on to find out what the society offers to students and why you should consider joining.
So you think you’ve got what it takes to be a Bella?
If watching Pitch Perfect has ever made you wonder whether you could survive an a cappella audition, Bristol gives you the chance to find out.
For the four auditioned groups (Suspensions, Pitch Fight, Academy and All Sharps), auditions are held at the start of the year, and the sign-up link can be found via the society’s Instagram page. You will be asked to prepare a short sequence from two contrasting songs that show off your vocal capabilities.
Unlike the intimidating auditorium auditions shown in Pitch Perfect, you will only have to perform to your chosen groups’ panel, which is a small group of committee members or group leavers. If they like what they hear, they will contact you for a Callback! This is a relaxed rehearsal-style environment where you practice with some returning members of the group as well as other auditionees. Shortly after your Callback, you will receive an email letting you know whether you have succeeded.
What socials does the society host?
The society hosts regular Sunday pub socials at The Den and Terrace and The Cocktail Club, but they are planning to integrate more activity-based events and sober socials. For example, they have introduced a Saturday morning run club to support student wellbeing and accommodate to students who are less interested in drinking.
There is also a family scheme in which new members are paired with returning members to take part in activities such as potluck. This is a great way to ensure new members integrate easily into their groups and feel quickly welcomed in the society.
The part Pitch Perfect gets right
Here’s the best part- competitive societies are even able to take part in the same international tournament that the very Barden Bellas are shown to compete in- the ICCA’s. Every February, competitive societies rival for a regional spot in the semi-finals. If the group wins the semi-finals, they will proceed to London. If they triumph in London, they can complete in the US!
Not quite ready to be a Bella? The annual festival BOSW (Best of Southwest) offers the opportunity for Bristol's non-competitive groups: Bristones, Topnote, Tonerangers and Wontones, to showcase what they've been working on all year and perform alongside other competitive groups. Taking place on the 28th of November this year, the event brings Pitch Perfect to life, with a cappella groups from universities such as Bath, Exeter, and Cardiff coming together for an evening of fireworks, drinks, and lots of fun.
Aside from tournaments, joining the society is a great way to meet other students from different courses, year groups, or even countries. The friendly and accommodating atmosphere of each group, along with weekly rehearsals and socials, offers a unique opportunity to bond with other members whilst doing something you love. One thing Pitch Perfect accurately captures is how singing can bring together such a diverse group of people, despite their differences.
The president of the society, Boris, affirms:
‘Without A Capella, my life wouldn’t be the same’
Hannah Jeffreys
Can’t Sight-Read? Don’t panic!
Many a cappella members are not entirely confident, so there is no need to worry! Sight-reading is not completely necessary, since groups usually release audio tracks to help you pick up tunes quickly. However, the society is introducing sight-reading lessons to support members who are less confident.
[The society is striving to] ’Demystify the idea that musical theory is for privileged students’ by ‘narrowing the gap of musical literacy’
If you’re not comfortable auditioning for an a cappella group, you can easily join one of the non-auditioned groups. This is a unique opportunity, as Bristol is one of the only universities with an a cappella society that offers such an option. So, if you prefer a more relaxed environment or have less time to dedicate to singing, there is still a chance for you to take part!
So… Is Bristol Really Pitch Perfect?
Whilst it may not be as glamorous or dramatic as the movie, there are certainly similar aspects, most importantly the diverse and welcoming community the society presents. According to the society president, becoming a member has proved to boost his social skills and strongly supported his mental wellbeing.
Olivia Hunt
So, if you’ve ever watched Pitch Perfect and wondered if that could be you, consider joining the society for an opportunity to meet great friends or even experience the 'American University' lifestyle.
Featured Image: 'A Cappella on stage' | Epigram / A Cappella Society
Would you join A Cappella Society?
