Vocal Chords to Present New Sounds at Spring Concerts

In its only concert appearances of the season, UCSF’s a cappella group, Vocal Chords, will be performing a new and eclectic mix of pop music on campus next month.

The two concerts are scheduled for Thursday, May 2, at 7:30 p.m. at Genentech Auditorium, and Monday, May 6, at 7 p.m. at Health Sciences West (HSW) 303. The performances last about 90 minutes, with an intermission and refreshments.

These are performances not to be missed, as the group takes off in a new direction. Vocal Chords will perform songs by Missy Higgins, Ne-Yo and Kelly Clarkson, as well as a variety of Spanish and Australian arrangements.

Vocal Chords has dazzled listeners for over 15 years, focusing on reviving oldies from the Beach Boys and pop favorites such as “California Dreaming.”  However, with the introduction of several new members, including its director, Bastian Holze, from Germany, the group has broadened its repertoire and evolved into a tight-knit ensemble.

“I love the little family that we have,” said Vocal Chords’ president, Jamie Wong, a second-year physical therapy student. “I think a lot us get sucked into UCSF and the daily rigor, that you forget how much joy something as simple as music can bring.”

Despite their busy schedules, the 11-member group has been rehearsing several times a week, and includes researchers, graduate students and faculty.

Ever dynamic, the members of Vocal Chords welcome new singers and listeners. They arrange many of their works themselves, and have performed at events as intimate as the UCSF faculty holiday party, and as far afield as the Bank of the West Classic at Stanford.

It’s no secret that UCSF students spend most of their time on coursework and developing their professional skills. The Vocal Chords’ spring performance is the perfect opportunity to see fellow colleagues in a whole new light.

Check out the group’s Facebook page at:  www.facebook.com/VocalChordsUCSF