Last fall, the Dutch Pipers were thrilled to open on campus for Naturally 7, a renowned a capella group, during Homecoming and Family Weekend.
Now Union’s male a capella singers get a chance to crack the big time. They have been asked to open for Rockapella when the popular, critically acclaimed group performs at The Egg in Albany, Friday, Jan. 9.
“It’s unreal,” said Brandon McArdle ’09, president of the Dutch Pipers. “This will easily be the most impressive show we’ve performed at since I’ve been at Union.”
Peter Lesser, executive director of The Egg, contacted McArdle just before the holidays to book the Dutch Pipers for the gig. Rockapella likes to feature a local opening act and Lesser was aware of the Dutch Pipers.
Since returning to campus over the weekend, the 12-member group has been rehearsing nightly for its Albany appearance. The group expects to perform three or four songs, including “Shout,” “MMMBop” and “Alive with the Glory of Love,” by Say Anything.
They will tune up for the show by performing 7 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 7, at Memorial Chapel, along with Union’s all-female a cappella group the Garnet Minstrelles and the co-ed a capella group Eliphalets, named after former longtime College President Eliphalet Nott. The Buffers, Hamilton’s male a cappella group, are also scheduled to perform at the concert, which is free and open to the public.
Later this month, Union’s three a cappella groups also will perform at the Nott as part of Art Night Schenectady Jan. 16.
Right now, McArdle and the group are focused on Friday’s show. After their set, they will stick around to listen to Rockapella, noted for the song, “Where in the World is Carmen Sandiego” and numerous commercial melodies, including the theme for Folger’s Coffee.
“We still can’t believe we have this opportunity,” said McArdle. “And we’re getting paid for it!”
Tickets for the show are $29.50, but a limited number will be available for students to purchase at the door at half-price. The Egg holds 450 people and Lesser said ticket sales are strong.
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