“This week alone we have six bookings,” said CNE music director Jacki Schneider, who launched the group when she began teaching at the school this year. “We don’t have any background music or instrumentals, just lots of great voices in four-part harmony with beatboxing mixed in!”
Beatboxing is a form of vocal percussion primarily involving the art of producing drum beats, rhythm, and musical sounds using the mouth, lips, tongue, and voice.
Taking a quick break from practice, junior Dylan Holland talked about how much fun he is having being part of the group.
“This is all pure music and I love it!” he said.
Senior Alicia Dennison agreed.
“Our love of music has really brought this group together,” she said.
Schneider admits even she is amazed at how quickly the young people have meshed to create beautiful harmonies.
“What’s really great is that these kids not only support each other musically, they push each other to excel in the classroom and beyond,” she said.
Schneider said 30 talented students tried out for Ear Candy in the fall. A cappella music is growing in popularity, partially due to the success of such television programs as Glee and the Sing Off. As Holland dons a Santa hat and takes center stage to perform a holiday tune in the CNE gym, a steady stream of students quietly gather to listen to the group that easily moves from upbeat holiday tunes to contemporary music like Rolling in the Deep or Disturbia.
Among the performances by Ear Candy this week, a stop at the Pattison Park Luminary Walk on Friday night.
For more information about the group or to book them for an upcoming event, email Schneider at schneider_j@cneschools.org or call 625-1211, extension 139.