Published April 30, 2021
Getting Involved: How to Join an A Cappella Group at NYU
Is A Cappella Right for You?
Do you have a passion for singing? Maybe you know every line in the “Pitch Perfect” movie? If you answered yes to either of these questions, a cappella may be the perfect opportunity for you! At NYU, there are more than eight a cappella groups to audition for each year. Before coming to NYU, I knew that I wanted to fulfill my musical interests in a casual setting while prioritizing academics. I study Hotel and Tourism Management at SPS. In addition to my studies, I have an on-campus job, an internship, and I’m in various other clubs. I am still able to be a part of a performing a cappella group that rehearses three times a week. It is entirely possible at NYU to do it all! I have met great friends through the group, and made some of the best memories I have so far on my NYU journey.
So Many Groups to Audition For!
I am in NYU’s premier all-male-identifying a cappella group, Mass Transit. We perform multiple times a year at NYU concerts and travel to other New York City venues. One thing that I found unique about my a cappella group is that we do not compete at festivals. This non-cutthroat environment was something that I was searching for. However, suppose competitions are a must-have for you when thinking about a cappella groups. There are plenty of other groups to audition for, such as N’Harmonics, the all-female-identifying Cleftomaniacs, The Mixtapes, and more! While there is a lot to consider when choosing which groups to audition for, NYU Clubfest at the beginning of each semester makes it easy to talk to club leaders and sign up to audition!
A Worthwhile Commitment
At NYU, most students spend much of their time focusing on each school’s rigorous academic programs. The drive to succeed at everything we pursue makes NYU students so unique. However, in that little bit of free time that you may have in between classes, jobs, and internships, a club is a great way to feel like a part of something and build a community outside of academics. I meet students from all over the world, studying anything from computer science to vocal performance through Mass Transit A Cappella. When I have a long day, it is a great motivator remembering I have a rehearsal that night. I think it is imperative to have an activity to unwind that is just done for fun!
Where Do I Get to Perform?
Mass Transit A Cappella performs at venues such as NYU’s Grand Hall, E&L Auditorium, the Skirball Center for the Performing Arts, Columbia University, and even right in the middle of Washington Square Park! Performing in the park definitely forced me right out of my shell. That is what living in New York City is all about!
Attend Welcome Week to Learn More!
You may be wondering, how did I find out about all of this in the first place? Welcome Week! As a first year student, I highly recommend going to Welcome Week to find what clubs and extracurriculars you are interested in. On one of the nights of Welcome Week, there is an A Cappella Showcase. All of the a cappella groups get to perform at the Skirball Center for the Performing Arts. I saw Mass Transit perform in their iconic button-up black shirts and colored ties, and knew I wanted to audition. Here is a clip of the incredible show in 2019:
Are You Ready to Take the Next Steps?
If after all of this, you are interested in auditioning for any acapella groups when you arrive at NYU, take a look at NYU’s Clubs and Organizations Homepage. There, you will find all you need to know about the a cappella groups and any other club that may excite you. There are clubs for all interests from sports to music to dance. No matter what club you choose, getting involved is one of the best ways to meet new people and make the most of your NYU experience.