The Timeless Harmonies of "The 1794's"

When asked what the best part of performing a cappella is, first-year member Kevin Zheng didn’t miss a beat. “Working with the other singers,” he said enthusiastically. “It is really all about voice, precision, rhythm and collaboration.” Zheng smiled and added that since there is no background music such as a piano or band to rely upon, you have to work solely with voices and learn from each other.

Julia Rafferty, who was a senior leader in the ensemble, said that the 1794’s “has given her space to grow as a technical singer.” For Julia, it has been the perfect place for serious singers to work with peers who share the same passion for voice. Rafferty noted that the group focuses “upon interesting harmonies and surprising twists that differentiated our covers from the originals.” Two of the 1794’s favorite numbers which illustrate this creativity are “Bohemian Rhapsody” by Queen and “Hallelujah” by Leonard Cohen, arranged for the 1794’s by Maggie Guarino-Trier. Senior Lexi Williamson arranged a cover of Bruno Mars’ “Count on Me” for the ensemble. Vocalist Aaron Luo says that he appreciates the cooperative spirit of the small group and that singing four-part harmony feels special.

Sam Weed, Lexi Williamson and Julia Rafferty, who graduated this year, founded the ensemble when they were in 9th grade. The 1794’s now showcases 11 singers. Members of the ensemble have varied musical backgrounds. Maggie Guarino-Trier and Akilah Goldson both participated in regional girls’ choruses; Guarino-Trier has also performed on the state level as a vocalist and flutist. Two new members of the group, Nan Zhou and Kevin Zheng, were encouraged to audition by music teacher Mrs. Eunyoung DiGiacomo after she heard them perform in the winter musical “School of Rock.”

Music teacher Nate Trier currently rehearses with the ensemble to help shape the arrangements and assist with honing pitch, tone, blending skills and sight-reading. Trier says, “The 1794’s is our most selective group - the students are responsible, motivated team players who work independently. They are all dedicated to making the group stronger and making themselves better.”

The results have been impressive. The 1794’s have performed to enthusiastic audiences at alumni reunions, parent receptions, commencement ceremonies, concerts and at morning meetings. Senior Director of Leadership and Planned Giving Barb Davis, said, “Our alumni and parents love having the 1794’s at our events, and we love being able to show off our incredibly talented students.” Davis added that they are so good she gets requests for the ensemble at events and dinners. Perhaps there is a CD in their future.