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Centerville-based a capella group headed to national competition in October

Centerville-Based A Cappella Group Headed to National Spotlight

CENTERVILLE – In the heart of this quiet Midwestern town, where cornfields stretch as far as the eye can see and community gatherings often revolve around high school football games and church potlucks, a group of talented vocalists is making waves far beyond local borders. The Centerville Harmonics, an a cappella ensemble formed just five years ago, has earned a coveted spot in the national finals of the prestigious Voices United A Cappella Competition, set to take place next month in New York City. This achievement marks a remarkable journey for the group, which started as a casual gathering of friends in a high school choir room and has now blossomed into a powerhouse of harmonious innovation.

The Harmonics, comprised of 12 members ranging in age from 18 to 25, specialize in a blend of contemporary pop covers, original arrangements, and intricate vocal percussion that mimics full-band instrumentation. Their signature style draws inspiration from groups like Pentatonix and Straight No Chaser, but with a unique twist that incorporates elements of folk and indie rock, reflecting the diverse musical tastes of their small-town roots. "We wanted to create something that feels authentic to who we are," said lead arranger and baritone vocalist Emily Thompson, a 22-year-old Centerville native who balances her time between the group and her studies in music education at the local community college. "Growing up here, music was always about community and storytelling. We bring that into every performance."

The road to the nationals hasn't been without its challenges. Founded in 2018 by a group of Centerville High School alumni who bonded over their shared love of singing during lunch breaks, the Harmonics initially performed at local events like the annual Centerville Harvest Festival and charity fundraisers. Their big break came in 2020 when a video of their rendition of Billie Eilish's "Bad Guy," complete with beatboxing and layered harmonies, went viral on TikTok, amassing over 2 million views. This online buzz led to invitations to regional competitions, where they honed their skills against more established groups from larger cities.

But the path forward was rocky. The COVID-19 pandemic forced the group to pivot to virtual rehearsals via Zoom, a format that tested their ability to synchronize without the energy of in-person collaboration. "There were times when we thought about giving up," admitted tenor singer Marcus Lee, 24, who works as a barista at a downtown coffee shop. "Singing into a screen just isn't the same as feeling the vibrations from everyone else's voices in the room. But it made us stronger. We learned to listen more intently and adapt our arrangements on the fly." Despite these hurdles, the Harmonics emerged from the pandemic with a renewed sense of purpose, releasing their first EP on streaming platforms last year, which featured original tracks like "Midwest Echoes," a haunting ballad about small-town dreams and aspirations.

Their qualification for the national finals came after a stunning performance at the Midwest Regional Qualifier in Chicago last month. Competing against 20 other groups, the Harmonics delivered a 15-minute set that included a medley of Taylor Swift hits reimagined with gospel influences and an original piece titled "Voices Unbound," which showcased their vocal range and emotional depth. Judges praised their precision, creativity, and stage presence, awarding them the top score and a direct ticket to New York. "What sets the Centerville Harmonics apart is their ability to blend technical prowess with heartfelt storytelling," said competition judge and music producer Lena Vasquez in a post-event interview. "They're not just singing notes; they're painting pictures with sound."

Preparation for the nationals is in full swing, with the group rehearsing four times a week in the basement of the Centerville Community Center. Director Sarah Jenkins, a former choir teacher at the high school who volunteered to lead the ensemble, emphasizes the importance of discipline and innovation. "We've been experimenting with new techniques, like incorporating body percussion and looping effects using just our voices," Jenkins explained. "It's all about pushing the boundaries of what a cappella can be. These kids have raw talent, but it's their work ethic that will carry them through."

The group's success has ripple effects throughout Centerville, a town of about 5,000 residents where opportunities for artistic expression can sometimes feel limited. Local businesses have rallied behind them, with sponsorships from the Centerville Bakery providing snacks for rehearsals and the hardware store donating materials for custom stage props. The mayor even declared next week "Harmonics Week," complete with a parade and a free concert in the town square. "This group is putting Centerville on the map," said longtime resident and fan Martha Reynolds, who attends every local performance. "They're inspiring our young people to dream big and pursue their passions, no matter where they come from."

Members of the Harmonics come from varied backgrounds, adding to the group's dynamic energy. Soprano vocalist Mia Gonzalez, 19, is a first-generation college student whose family immigrated from Mexico; she infuses Latin rhythms into their arrangements. Bass singer Jamal Wright, 25, brings a hip-hop flair from his days as a freestyle rapper in high school. "A cappella is like a family," Gonzalez shared. "We support each other through everything – school stress, personal struggles, you name it. Heading to nationals feels like a win for all of us, not just the group."

As they gear up for New York, the Harmonics are not just focused on winning the competition's grand prize – a recording contract and a $10,000 cash award – but on the broader impact. They've launched a mentorship program for younger students in Centerville, offering free vocal workshops to encourage the next generation of singers. "We want to show that you don't need fancy equipment or a big city to make great music," Thompson said. "All you need is your voice and a group of people who believe in you."

The national finals will be broadcast live on a major streaming platform, giving the Harmonics a chance to perform in front of millions. For a group that started with humble beginnings, this opportunity represents the culmination of years of dedication. Yet, they remain grounded in their roots. "No matter what happens in New York, Centerville will always be home," Lee reflected. "This journey has taught us that harmony isn't just about music; it's about coming together as a community."

Looking ahead, the Harmonics have ambitious plans. If they secure the recording deal, they aim to produce a full-length album that highlights original compositions, potentially collaborating with established artists in the a cappella world. They're also exploring touring possibilities, with dreams of performing at festivals across the country. But for now, the focus is on the stage in New York, where they'll compete against top groups from universities and cities nationwide.

The story of the Centerville Harmonics is a testament to the power of perseverance and the magic of vocal artistry. In an era dominated by auto-tuned tracks and digital production, their pure, unaccompanied voices remind us of the raw beauty of human expression. As they prepare to take the national stage, the group carries with them the hopes and cheers of their hometown, proving that even from the quiet corners of America, extraordinary talent can resonate loudly.

This achievement also underscores a growing trend in the a cappella scene, where grassroots groups are challenging the dominance of collegiate powerhouses from Ivy League schools. The Voices United Competition, now in its 15th year, has seen an influx of entries from non-traditional backgrounds, democratizing the art form. For the Harmonics, it's about more than competition; it's about representation. "We're here to show that talent exists everywhere," Jenkins said. "Centerville might be small, but our voices are mighty."

As the group boards the bus for New York in a few weeks, they'll do so with a repertoire polished to perfection and hearts full of gratitude. Win or lose, the Centerville Harmonics have already won by inspiring a town and a generation to find their own harmony. Their journey from local stages to the national spotlight is a melody that continues to unfold, note by resonant note.

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