Tonal Spectrum, a sixteen member a cappella group from Crest High School, under the choral direction of Michael Martinez and assisted by Megan Philbeck and 29 fans traveled to Dayton, Ohio through snow and sub-zero temperatures to compete in the semi-final of the International Championship of High School A Cappella (ICHSA) on February 20th. Tonal Spectrum brought back the 1st place win to North Carolina, Cleveland County and Crest High School.
Hundreds of a cappella groups auditioned for this opportunity across the nation, Tonal Spectrum was one of approximately 121 groups who made the cut to the semi-finals. Competing among ten well deserving schools in Ohio and a very tight competition, Tonal Spectrum brought all their enthusiasm to the stage in an outstanding performance, earning them the TOP spot as Regional Champions of the ICHSA and the honor of competing for the National Finals being held in New York in April. This is such an honor and opportunity for these young people.
Choral Director Michael Martinez launched the a cappella group last year and they finished second in the 2014 semi-final. Knowing competition would ramp up this year, Martinez used his experience as a cappella performer and judge to pull the vocal talent out of this year's group and used great choreography and creativity. Martinez also encouraged other choral students to come along to Ohio as fans, a feature that greatly contributed to the energy and success of the performance.
Tonal Spectrum's vocal talent and spirit wowed the judging panel. In a ten minute performance, fans enjoyed a seamless, interwoven medley of six songs accompanied by flowing movement that expressed the diverse stories told by the music. Where other groups focused on completing three complete songs. Tonal Spectrum mixed verses, sang in French, whistled, and executed dance moves from ballroom to rap. Tonal Spectrum featured nine soloists showing a depth of talent that impressed the judges.
Comments from judges include: "The Energy was ELECTRIC!"; "Great energy from the group, WOW!"; "Wow, you are all just so engaged with each other and the audience, amazing!"; "Oh hey, Dancing with the Stars!"; "Very compelling soloists"; and "(Ballroom) Dancing, wow that was very unexpected and cool!"
Members of the Crest High Group, Tonal Spectrum include Jarius Stong, Drake Shull, Isaiah Crawford, Jorden McCormick, Jake Frazier, Nathan Hawsey, MJ McCluney, Michael Morton, Roger Matheson, Sydney Hardin, Kendal Cudd, Brook Hollifield, Kayleia Daves, Emily Barnes, Victoria Fortenberry and Jordan Beaver.
These kids love to sing and have so much talent. They have committed themselves physically, with great diligence and hours of practices throughout the year to prefect their performance along with guidance and dedication of their teachers and family support. Many have given up sports and other activities to make this group the best they can be.
Martinez hopes this outstanding win for Crest will make everyone take note of how involved students are in the arts. He says that the choral program at Crest is growing stronger, doing great things and succeeding.
To pay for the trip to New York in April The Crest Chorus Booster Club is working hard to find ways to raise money. The trip to Ohio was funded by parents and fundraisers but they are in need of greater support for this trip. The group is reaching out to the community and businesses for support. They are also hoping to set up a fundraiser where the kids can perform. They are a must see group.
Donations may be sent to: CCSOA 510 Big Oak Rd, Shelby, NC or made on www.gofundme.com/tonalspectrum Booster club is 501(C)(3), so all donations are tax deductible.
For more information you may also email crestchorusboosters@gmail.com