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Association of Chelmsford A Cappella to host annual vocal festival showcasing 18 groups May 10-11

CHELMSFORD, Massachusetts (May 8, 2024)– Prepare for a vocal extravaganza like no other, as the Association of Chelmsford A Cappella (ACA) presents Aca-Pocalypse, May 10-11, in the Carl J. Rondina Performing Arts Center at Chelmsford High School.

Chelmsford’s dynamic a cappella festival will showcase 18 of the most talented high school and middle school groups from around the region.

Headliner and master of ceremonies for the weekend event will be the celebrated Pitch, Please from Northeastern University. Known for their captivating performances and vocal prowess, the group will be leading attendees through an unforgettable weekend of music.

Elevating the Aca-Pocalypse festival to new heights, the spotlight shines brightly on Chelmsford’s very own vocal champions.

The Crescendos, reigning ICHSA Northeast Regional Champions, and The Thursdays, who clinched an impressive third place in the semi-finals, promise to captivate the audience with their extraordinary performances.

These acclaimed host groups will demonstrate their talent and fervor that have catapulted them to the forefront of the competitive a cappella landscape.

Adding to the festival’s rich tapestry of sounds, gifted vocalists from across the region—including Andover, Bedford, Brookline, Lexington, Lowell, Marlborough, North Reading and Springfield—will contribute their unique voices and styles.

Together, they embody the collaborative spirit and diversity of the a cappella community, making Aca-Pocalypse a showcase of unparalleled vocal harmony and artistry.

“As the school year winds down, Aca-Pocalypse always feels like a celebration,” said Amanda Roeder, Chelmsford High School music teacher and advisor for The Thursdays and The Crescendos. “It’s a final chance for our CHS groups to showcase all the great work they’ve done throughout the year, alongside some of their favorite groups from other Massachusetts schools.”

Chelmsford High School senior Madeleine Gaffney, co-president of The Thursdays, said she thinks Aca-Pocalypse is one of the best parts of the entire year.

“The competition season is extremely exhilarating, but it’s so nice to be able to sing as a part of a showcase that doesn’t have as much of a high-stress environment,” she said. “At Aca-Pocalypse, all of the performing groups are super supportive of one another and we cheer each other on throughout our entire sets.”

Although she’s looking forward to Aca-Pocalypse, Ms. Gaffney said it is sure to be an emotional weekend.

“As a senior, my feelings are bittersweet, as I am definitely going to miss being in this amazing community of singers,” she said. “Leading The Thursdays has been one of the most fulfilling parts of my high school experience.”

If You Go

What: Aca-Pocalypse a cappella festival

When: Friday, May 10, from 7 to 10 p.m. and Saturday, May 11, from 2 to 5 p.m.

Where: Carl J. Rondina Performing Arts Center, Chelmsford High School, 200 Richardson Road, Chelmsford, MA 01824

Tickets: $20 at the door ($15 for Student/Senior/Military) or available at a discount if purchased online at https://bit.ly/ACAP2024.

For more information about Aca-Pocalypse, participating groups, ticketing and more, visit https://bit.ly/ACAP2024.

About Chelmsford Public Schools

The Chelmsford Public School District provides all students with multiple pathways to optimize their own potential for academic excellence, leadership, and social and emotional wellness. The mission of the Chelmsford Public Schools is to educate, engage, prepare, and empower well-rounded and knowledgeable learners to PERSEVERE through challenges, demonstrate RESPECT and INTEGRITY in their words and actions, are DEDICATED to their community, and display EMPATHY as global citizens while discovering and pursuing their full potential. This PRIDE-driven culture enables all members of the school community to support the growth and development of students. For more information, please visit www.chelmsfordschools.org.