'From pop hits to traditional tunes' - Recap of the ISA A Cappella Competition 2023

The ISA A Cappella Competition 2023 took place on Friday 10 March, kindly hosted by Leighton Park School. Thirteen choirs and ensembles from ten Members' schools treated us to sensational vocal performances across three age categories (KS1-2, KS3, and KS4-5).

We enjoyed song choices including pop hits, traditional songs and iconic film themes. Each group showed great passion for the craft of singing unaccompanied. Our judge commented on how wonderful it was to see the groups really enjoying themselves on stage.

The day kicked off with the junior category, with St John's Preparatory and Senior School winning first place for their performance of The Lion Sleeps Tonight. Portland Place School's impressive rendition of Sweet Dreams won them top spot in the middle category. Finally, a highly polished performance of Friend Like Me by hosts Leighton Park School's chamber choir saw them win the senior category. 

The day ended with a singing workshop from judge Christopher Hann. Christopher is an experienced conductor, singer, and vocal tutor, and is an Associate of The Royal Academy of Music. Bringing the competitors of all ages together to sing was a great way to round off an exciting day of music.

Well done to everyone who took part in the ISA A Cappella Competition, and congratulations to the award winners:

Junior Category

First Place: St John’s Preparatory and Senior School - The Lion Sleeps Tonight
Second Place: The Mead School - White Winter Hymnal

Middle Category

First Place: ACS Cobham International School – Happy
                     Portland Place School - Sweet Dreams
Second Place: North Bridge House Senior School – Stand By Me

Senior Category

First Place: Leighton Park School Chamber Choir - Friend Like Me
Second Place: ArtsEd Day School and Sixth Form - Dreams

If you would like to know more about the competition, please visit the A Cappella Competition page, or contact us [email protected].