by Mike Smith
Daily Lobo
When Michael Stokes walks around UNM, it's a bit like a band member walking through a guitar store - for every person he sees talking with friends, he sees a person with an instrument.
Stokes, a UNM music education major, is an experienced a cappella singer - that is, he makes music without the accompaniment of musical instruments. He said he wants to assemble a 15-piece a cappella group from UNM students.
"UNM doesn't have a group," Stokes said. "The potential is here. What better time is there than the present?"
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Stokes said he does not see the form of singing as something old or out of fashion.
"The classical choirs of old, which were formed around church music, are still relevant in terms of vocal training but are not as fun to listen to," Stokes said. "The energy and excitement of an a cappella group is very much on the surface, so it's easy to enjoy."
Stokes said his experiences with a cappella music, as well as his fondness for the genre, have filled him with the desire to create a group of his own.
"I was in a collegiate-style group for two years and can say that I have never experienced anything in music that was as rewarding," Stokes said. "I am simply trying to be a part of the latest musical phenomenon, because I know how insanely cool it can be."
Andrea Zamora, a UNM music student, said the idea of auditioning sounds fun.
"I haven't heard a lot of a cappella music, but it's something I'd be interested in," she said.
David Kelly, a UNM music student, said he doesn't quite agree.
"I'd like to hear the group," he said. "I probably wouldn't participate in it, though."
Stokes said those auditioning need to realize that being in the group will require intense dedication but will ultimately be rewarding. The group will perform pop, hip-hop, rock, folk or whatever the group members may be interested in, Stokes said.
The group will sing in what's known as a vocal-band style in which every member forms an essential part of every song. Auditions for the group will be held Friday and Saturday and will be open to men and women of all ages.
"I will do a short presentation; then I will teach the group a simple set of rhythms and lines," Stokes said. "They will have to memorize it and perform it back in groups. It shouldn't be too hard. I am trying to test personality, vocal range and vocal blend. There will be food and a cappella song samples."
Stokes said he expects anywhere from 10 to 50 people to audition for the group. He said he is confident he will be able to put together a group talented enough to record an album, perform locally and apply for competitions. He's especially interested in finding a vocal percussionist, or what's more commonly known as a human beatbox.
"I wouldn't be trying to form the group if I didn't expect to get talent," Stokes said. "I know for a fact that this campus has an extremely talented student body. I am excited to see who comes to the auditions."
A cappella auditions
Sept. 8
3 p.m. in Room 1108 of the Center for Performing Arts
Sept. 9
3 p.m. in Room 1111 of the Center for Performing Arts
