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A cappella music: definition, characteristics, known groups

Definition: A cappella - What is it?

"A cappella" is an Italian term meaning "in church style." It describes music that is sung without instrumental accompaniment.

A cappella music has its origins in the church music of the Middle Ages and the Renaissance. At that time, Gregorian chants and chorales were sung a cappella by monks and nuns. However, over the centuries, a cappella music has evolved and can now be found in many different musical genres. Nowadays there are special bands that sing pure a cappella music. One of the most famous is Pentatonix.

Special features of the "a cappella" singing style

  • No instrumental accompaniment: The singing is the focus and is not supported by instruments.
  • Harmony singing: Usually sung with several voices at the same time to create complex harmonies.
  • Percussion: In many a cappella pieces, body parts, such as hands or faces, are used as percussive instruments.
  • Vocal effects: Using claps, snaps, hums and other techniques create vocal effects that make the music even more interesting.
  • Improvisation: Many a cappella groups improvise while singing and spontaneously add new elements.
  • Diverse styles: A cappella music finds appeal in many different genres, from pop and rock to jazz and classical to traditional and world music.

6 famous a cappella groups you should know about

Below we present 6 successful a cappella groups that have already managed to establish themselves in the music scene.

1. The Swingle Singers

The Swingle Singers are an a cappella group founded in Paris in the 1960s. They are known for their unique interpretation of classical music and have released several albums that include Bach, Mozart, and other composers. The group has won several awards and has appeared in numerous television shows and films.

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2. Take 6

Take 6, formed in the 1980s in the USA, is an a cappella group known for their amazing harmony and their combination of jazz, gospel and R&B. They have released numerous albums, won several Grammys, and are considered to be one of the best and most successful a cappella groups of all time.

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3. Pentatonix

Pentatonix is an a cappella group founded in 2011 in the USA. They have had an impressive career, appearing on television shows such as "The Sing-Off," and releasing several albums that have entered the charts. They are especially known for their pop and electronic covers and their impressive arrangements.

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4. The Real Group

The Real Group, founded in Sweden in 1984, is an a cappella group that stands out for its innovative music and diversity. With roots in jazz, pop and classical music, they have released a variety of albums and performed all over the world.

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6. Filharmonic

Filharmonic is an a cappella group from the USA, known for their performances on the television show "The Sing-Off." They have interpreted a variety of musical styles, from pop and R&B to hip-hop and film music.

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7. Gentleman’s Rule

Gentleman's Rule is an American a cappella group that specializes in pop music. It was formed in the USA and has since released several albums and performed on various stages. The group is known for its energetic and entertaining performances, as well as its impressive arrangements and harmonies. Appearances on popular television shows, such as The Sing-Off and America's Got Talent, earned Gentleman's Rule an impressive following.

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A cappella music has gained popularity in recent years, especially with the television show "The Sing-Off" and movies like "Pitch Perfect." It is a timeless art form that puts the human voice in the forefront and showcases the skills of singers and musicians.

Now you also want to join an a capella band?

Are you looking for talented singers for your a cappella project? Then you should definitely take a look at our musician platform mukken.com. There you will find a variety of talented musicians and bands who specialize in a cappella and are ready to contribute their skills to your project. Whether you're looking for an entire choir or just a few soloists, you're sure to find what you're looking for here. If you want to learn more about the different professions in the music world, click here.

Originally published on January 20, 2023, updated on August 25, 2023

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