Draft:Ektaal A Cappella

Ektaal A Cappella is the first and only Desi/South Asian a cappella group at the University of Virginia. It was founded in 1999 as an all-girls group but soon became a gender-inclusive group in the following years. Ektaal's mission is to spread cultural appreciation throughout the University with their unique arrangements that combine Western and Desi musical elements. They perform at events at the University of Virginia, host semesterly concerts, open for popular artists, and compete around the country at a cappella competitions. Each year, 10-15 first through fourth years of various ethnic backgrounds carry on this legacy after completing a rigorous audition process.

Their name translates to "one beat", representing their goal of bridging cultural divides through music.

Events

Auditions

At the beginning of both the fall and spring semesters at the University of Virginia, Ektaal conducts a week-long audition process to select new members from the dozens of interested students. Ektaal looks for individuals with any level of musical background and appreciates voices from Carnatic, Pop, and R&B. Auditionees can audition for one of four vocal parts (Bass, Tenor, Alto, Soprano) or for vocal percussion/beatbox.

Auditions test for vocal ability and social fit. Once finalized, offers are extended to "newbies" who sign on to a four-year commitment.

Concerts

Ektaal hosts a semesterly concert in which they perform their setlist for the semester. Typically there are 8-9 arrangements at every concert, and the performance is split with an intermission act in the middle, typically done by another cultural organization. The months leading up to their concert are focused on writing and learning arrangements, and it all culminates at this event in front of hundreds of audience members.

University Performances

Numerous collaborations take place with Ektaal and other organizations during the school year. Ektaal performs at events hosted by the Indian, Pakistani, and Bangladeshi student associations, as well as with non-cultural organizations such as the Nursing School, Lighting of the Lawn, Rotunda Sing, and Arts Week. University performances feature 1-2 songs from their semester setlist.

Outside Performances

Outside of the University, Ektaal performs at events such as weddings and birthdays and opens for various musical concerts. Most notably, Ektaal has opened for Red Baraat and Sunny Jain.

Notable arrangements

Urvasi x Levitating x Sheila Ki Jawaani A.R. Rahman Mashup Samajavaragamana Buttabomma x Othaiyadi Pathayila x Shubhaarambh Don't Stop the Music Lovely Waving Through a Window x Jaane Nahin Jiya Re x Beggin

Recognition and awards

• Sangeet Sagar 2018 "Best Arrangement" Award
• Sangeet Sagar 2018 "Best Vocal Percussion" Award
• Cavalier Daily

References

• "Ektaal A Cappella". Retrieved March 14, 2024.

• Pathak, Siona (November 7, 2023). "Ektaal celebrates South Asian music and culture through a cappella". Cavalier Daily at the University of Virginia. Retrieved March 14, 2024.