A Cappella
A Cappella is a style of vocal performance where singers perform without any musical instruments accompanying them. All music, including melodies, harmonies, and even percussion sounds, are created using only human voices. This skill is highly valued in choir direction, vocal music education, and performance industries. When you see this term in a resume, it indicates that the candidate has experience in either performing, directing, or teaching this challenging form of vocal music. Similar terms include "unaccompanied singing" or "vocal-only performance."
Examples in Resumes
Directed a 20-member A Cappella ensemble that won regional competitions
Created arrangements for A Cappella performances of popular songs
Led weekly A Cappella workshops for beginning vocal students
Typical job title: "A Cappella Directors"
Also try searching for:
Where to Find A Cappella Directors
Professional Organizations
Online Communities
Job Resources
Example Interview Questions
Senior Level Questions
Q: How do you approach creating vocal arrangements for an a cappella ensemble?
Expected Answer: A senior director should discuss analyzing the original song, considering vocal ranges, distributing parts effectively, and creating balanced harmonies. They should mention experience with different styles and ability to write or adapt arrangements.
Q: How do you handle the artistic development of an established a cappella group?
Expected Answer: Should discuss strategies for challenging experienced singers, expanding repertoire, maintaining vocal health, and preparing for high-level performances while managing group dynamics.
Mid Level Questions
Q: What techniques do you use to achieve blend in an a cappella ensemble?
Expected Answer: Should explain methods for helping singers match vowel sounds, balance volume levels, and maintain consistent tone quality across the group.
Q: How do you teach pitch accuracy to your singers?
Expected Answer: Should describe warm-up exercises, ear training methods, and techniques for maintaining pitch without instrumental support.
Junior Level Questions
Q: What is your process for teaching a new piece to an a cappella group?
Expected Answer: Should describe basic steps like teaching individual parts, using learning tools like recordings, and gradually combining voices.
Q: How do you conduct basic vocal warm-ups?
Expected Answer: Should demonstrate knowledge of basic vocal exercises, proper breathing techniques, and simple warm-up routines.
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (0-2 years)
- Basic vocal instruction
- Simple arrangement skills
- Fundamental conducting techniques
- Basic ear training methods
Mid (2-5 years)
- Advanced vocal coaching
- Complex arrangement abilities
- Performance direction
- Group dynamics management
Senior (5+ years)
- Professional arrangement creation
- Advanced conducting techniques
- Program development
- Competition preparation experience
Red Flags to Watch For
- No formal music education or equivalent experience
- Limited knowledge of vocal technique and health
- Lack of experience in group leadership
- Poor understanding of different musical styles
Related Terms
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