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Author: Benjamin Rivenburgh

South Creek Revival Announces Debut Album, “Life Itself”

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Formed in 2021 in Buffalo, New York, South Creek Revival is an eight-member studio a cappella group preparing to release its first fully recorded and produced full-length album.

Following the release of their debut EP, Midnight Reverie, in April 2023, the group has spent the past few years refining their vocal artistry and production skills. The result is Life Itself, a dynamic album that spans a wide range of genres while showcasing the unique solo talents of each member.

Life Itself will be released on Friday, August 14, and the group is excited to share this milestone with listeners.

This week, I’ll have the pleasure of sitting down with South Creek Revival’s arranger and producer, Joshua Carter, for a video interview to discuss the new album, the creative process behind it, and what’s next for the group. Stay tuned for our radio segment and interview discussing more South Creek Revival in detail!

Be sure to follow South Creek Revival on Instagram, YouTube, Facebook, Apple Music, and Spotify, and give their music a listen!

Meredith Bay’s 65th Annual Barbershop Jamboree

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The Meredith Bay Barbershop Jamboree returns to Meredith, New Hampshire, August 14–16, for its 65th annual celebration of barbershop harmony. Hosted by the Barbershop Harmony Society, the weekend welcomes singers from across Canada and the Northeastern United States for three days of music, fellowship, and community. Throughout the weekend, visitors can enjoy pop-up performances at Hesky Park, local businesses, and the Meredith Community Center, creating a lively musical atmosphere across town. Whether you’re a longtime barbershop enthusiast or discovering the style for the first time, everyone is invited to experience the fun and camaraderie of the event.

Watch the event stream live from anywhere – sign up at Acaville Live!

This year’s Jamboree features special performances by BHS International Champion Quartet GQ and WBQA 2026 Quartet Champions Continuum. Friday evening kicks off with “Champs Only” Night, showcasing both award-winning quartets. Originally held in Alton Bay for more than 60 years, the Jamboree moved to Meredith in 2022 and has continued to grow while honoring its long-standing tradition of bringing singers together through barbershop harmony. The EIH Chorus will also make a special guest appearance during Saturday evening’s show and they’d love for you to sing with them! Rehearsal begins at 6:00 PM before the performance. Music and learning tracks are available at:
https://www.nedistrict.org/events/meredith-bay-jamboree-2026

Acaville is Thrilled to Welcome Benjamin Rivenburgh as Our Newest Manager!

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A vocalist, beatboxer, producer, and audio engineer from Germantown, Maryland, Ben brings years of experience and a genuine passion for the a cappella community. His musical journey began at Towson University, where he performed as both a vocalist and trumpet player in the Towson University Marching Band while singing with the university’s a cappella group, Untitled.

After competing in ICCA with Untitled in 2020, Ben discovered a passion for competitive a cappella that inspired him to elevate his vocal percussion skills. He trained under 2019 Grand Beatbox Battle Champion, D-Low, refining his technique, expanding his versatility, and developing his signature sound.

In 2021, Ben became a founding member of Off Track, an award-winning group that earned two Mid-Atlantic ICCA Finals appearances in 2025 and 2026. He performed with the group through 2024 and received the 2024 ICCA Award for Outstanding Vocal Percussion in recognition of his exceptional musicianship. That same year, he graduated from Towson University with a bachelor’s degree in Electronic Media and Film.

Beyond performing, Ben has spent the past several years working as an audio engineer with RDX Productions, supporting a cappella concerts and competitions throughout the community. Ben also assists in judging for Varsity Vocals competitions. Through those experiences, he found not only a creative outlet, but also a close-knit community of collaborators and friends who share his love for the art form.

Now, Ben is bringing that same energy and expertise to Acaville. As our newest manager, he’ll help lead our social media presence and create engaging content that celebrates, supports, and connects the global a cappella community.

We’re excited to have Ben on the team!

ACA-CON Returns to Utah for an Unforgettable Night of A Cappella

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ACA-CON, Utah’s premier a cappella concert event, returns on September 18, 2026, at the Edward A. Kenley Centennial Amphitheater in Layton, Utah. Presented by Amplify Benefit Concerts and hosted by Vocalocity, the annual event brings together friends, families, and music lovers for an evening of world-class a cappella entertainment while supporting a meaningful local cause.

Hosted by Utah-based professional a cappella group Vocalocity, ACA-CON showcases exceptional vocal talent and unforgettable live performances. Since forming in 2007, Vocalocity has performed at theaters, festivals, and special events across the country, including appearances for Jay Leno and headlining performances at the Sapphire Room in Boise, Idaho. Known for their innovative arrangements, dynamic stage presence, and diverse repertoire of pop, rock, and timeless classics, Vocalocity continues to captivate audiences wherever they perform.

Joining Vocalocity is special guest Eclipse 6, the acclaimed all-male a cappella group founded at Utah State University in 2000. Known for their inspiring performances and rich vocal blend, Eclipse 6 has appeared around the world, including at the opening and closing ceremonies of the 2002 Winter Olympics. The group has earned numerous honors, including Regional Harmony Sweepstakes champion, Utah Best of State “Best Vocal Group,” and multiple Pearl and Contemporary A Cappella Recording Awards. A third guest group will be announced soon.

Produced by the nonprofit Amplify Benefit Concerts, ACA-CON is more than an evening of music—it’s an opportunity to give back. Since 2020, Amplify has raised more than $60,000 through benefit concerts supporting individuals and families facing unexpected hardships, with every ticket helping continue that mission.

Tickets are available at https://events.humanitix.com/aca-con-2026.

Join us for an unforgettable evening of incredible music, community, and a chance to make a difference.

GQ Wins Barbershop Harmony Society World Championship

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GQ has made history as the first women’s quartet to win the Barbershop Harmony Society International Quartet Championship. The quartet captured the gold medal at the 2026 World Championship in St. Louis, Missouri, finishing ahead of 51 other quartets from around the globe.

Their championship victory caps a remarkable competitive journey. In 2022, GQ placed fourth in the first international barbershop contest to include non-male quartets. They followed with a fifth-place finish in 2025 before claiming the world title in 2026.

GQ is made up of Amanda Sandroni (tenor), Katie Gillis (lead), Ali Hauger (baritone), and Samantha Tramack (bass). The four singers met while attending Towson University and officially formed the quartet in July 2011.

In addition to pursuing excellence in barbershop harmony, GQ is committed to music education and mentoring young singers. Each member works in music education while maintaining a career in the arts. Their journey from aspiring performers to world champions reflects their dedication to the craft and their passion for inspiring the next generation of barbershop musicians.

The Top 5 Ranking Quartets:

  1. GQ — 6,723 points (93.4 avg)
  2. Gimme Four — 6,700 points (93.1 avg)
  3. Full Effect — 6,645 points (92.3 avg)
  4. First Take — 6,552 points (91.0 avg)
  5. Sunday Night Social — 6,544 points (90.9 avg)

Congratulations to GQ and to everybody who took the stage – another successful year of amazing barbershop music!