JOHNSON CITY – Ascension, a contemporary a cappella ensemble that is part of East Tennessee State University’s Department of Music, is advancing through an international competition.
The group won second place in the quarterfinals of the International Championship
of Collegiate A Cappella. In so doing, Ascension beat out some of the top groups in
the nation that have traditionally swept those categories.
“Ascension is absolutely thrilled to be advancing and competing in the south semifinals
of ICCA,” said Thomas Richardson, director and graduate of the ETSU Department of
Music. “Being able to move forward to this next level of competition and perform against
prestigious groups from all over the South is such a privilege.”
In addition, ETSU student Adam Hybarger won Outstanding Soloist. Ascension is scheduled
to compete in the semifinals on March 11 in Durham, N.C. If successful, the ensemble
will advance to the national competition in New York later this spring.
“We hope to show that the quality of music ETSU produces is right up there with the
best of the best,” Richardson said.