Vocal Confluence expands repertoire, performances
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A cappella men’s group Vocal Confluence is prepping its pipes for an upcoming concert at Rodef Shalom Congregation, 4905 Fifth Ave., Pittsburgh.
“’Til I Hear You Sing: An Afternoon with Vocal Confluence,” will begin at 3 p.m. Aug. 25, featuring a “potpourri” of favorites including jazz standards, Broadway hits and traditional choral numbers.
Also performing will be two chapter quartets and the newly formed Pittsburgh Metro Mixed Ensemble.
The group has historically performed a holiday show each December, but is branching out with this upcoming show, says Josh Gongaware, president.
“We plan to continue producing two shows per year in 2020 and beyond,” he says.
They also typically compete in at least one barbershop contest annually and perform for a variety of community events. “This year, we had the privilege to be part of both the Heinz Memorial Chapel Concert Series in March and the Deutschtown Music Festival in July, among other events held in and around Pittsburgh,” Gongaware says.
Those attending the upcoming concert will hear songs including “‘Til I Hear You Sing” from Andrew Lloyd Webber’s “Love Never Dies,” “Go the Distance” from Disney’s “Hercules,” “Their Hearts Were Full of Spring” as sung by The Four Freshmen and The Beach Boys, and “What a Wonderful World,” a Louis Armstrong staple.
Following a 2018 announcement from the group’s parent organization, the Barbershop Harmony Society, that the men’s-only organization since 1938 would open membership to all, Vocal Confluence launched its Pittsburgh Metro Mixed Ensemble.
“When barbershop comes to mind, you probably envision a group of all men or all women, but mixed barbershop harmony is on the rise, and we are so excited about the future of our mixed ensemble,” Gongaware says.
Vocal Confluence has gained 12 new members this year, and more are welcome.
Weekly rehearsals, held 7 to 10 p.m. Mondays at Rodef Shalom Congregation in Shadyside, are open to guests, Gongaware says.
“While some experience may be helpful, you do not necessarily need to have extensive musical or singing experience to join,” he adds.
Interested singers can reach out by email at info@vocalconfluence.org.
Concert tickets are $12-$18.
Details: 412-573-1865 or vocalconfluence.org