Pitch Perfect Performances at the ISA A Cappella Competition

It’s been two years since the inaugural ISA A Cappella showdown, but today we were delighted to again host nine schools alongside the famed ‘Sons of Pitches’ for another round of polyphonic performances!

With participants from prep school through to Sixth Form, each recital was unique and compelling. As praised by the Independent School Association, each individual showed great courage by taking to the stage with no musical accompaniment, with groups often embracing isolated vocals in their performances.

The first group from Leighton Park to perform on the morning was the Chamber Choir with ‘Somebody That I Used to Know’. The 11 strong group of students from across Years 11 to Upper Sixth were awarded first place for their dulcet tones.

“It was a really great day, we got to meet lots of new schools. We loved hearing everyone perform and the variety on stage.” commented Flick and Esther in Year 11 following their performance.

Next it was the turn of Barbershop Quartet, 4 in a Bar, who impressed the judges as the only entrants in the barbershop category with their take on ‘Go the Distance’ from Disney’s Hercules.

To round off the performances from Leighton Park, Pitchcraft delivered their Daft Punk Medley for which they placed second. The Sons of Pitches praised the group for their “fantastic performance of a very, very difficult arrangement.”

Cheering from the side-lines, high-spirited Director of Music, Rosemary Scales, said “We’re very proud of all the hard work our amazing students have done. They have all worked independently on their individual items and have achieved incredible standards.”

After lunch, if was the turn of Sons of Pitches to take to the stage before the judging and feedback commenced. With their medleys of Let Me Entertain You by Robbie Williams and Butter by BTS, the Hall was on its feet and singing along. If that wasn’t entertaining enough, the boys then did what they do best; with suggestions from the excitable audience, the vocalists improvised to create their own catchy number about fishing in Reading, to the style of musical theatre and hip hop!

“The atmosphere was electric. It was so much fun to see so many people perform and collaborate together.” Enthused Pitchcraft member, Dominic. “I really enjoyed the competition and all the other schools were amazing, there were some great performances and I’ve just loved the whole day!” added fellow member Charlotte.