GrooVe of Grand Valley State University’s a cappella student organization was established in 2009. GrooVe is a co-ed a cappella group that performs for the community, holds semester concerts and competes in the International Championship of Collegiate A Cappella (ICCA): a competition for a cappella groups all over the U.S.
Earlier in 2023 GrooVe was an ICCA Great Lakes Quarterfinalist. In the past, GrooVe has performed the National Anthem at a Grand Rapids Gold game and has been involved in charitable events supporting organizations such as the Helen Devos Children’s Hospital and the American Cancer Society. The organization is looking to continue its involvement throughout the school year and to encourage new members to join.
Member Lillian Ferguson said GrooVe is full of funny and welcoming people and they can’t get through a rehearsal or meeting without bursting out laughing. GrooVe is a place where the members can come and take a break from their school work and have fun with their peers.
“We usually come into rehearsal in sweats, which is always welcome of course, and we start with fun warm-ups,” Ferguson said.
Ferguson said she felt the absence of choir and band at GVSU is what drew her to GrooVe. She chose to audition in the fall of 2022 because of how friendly and fun the group looked.
GrooVe aims to be a place where like-minded individuals can get together and enjoy something they love. President of GrooVe, Rylee Webb, said one of her fondest memories during her time in GrooVe was competing with her team.
“One memory that I really cherish from my time in GrooVe was when we competed at ICCA’s last February. It was our first time competing, and I just remember feeling so proud of how far we had come,” Webb said. “ I felt very fulfilled to be around people who enjoy singing as much as I do and were dedicated to putting on a great performance. It was a wonderful day and I’m so excited to do it again next year.”
At the beginning of the fall semester, GrooVe holds open auditions for anyone interested in joining the group. GrooVe meets a few times throughout the week depending on when students are available.
