Walking into Capistrano Hall, Sacramento State’s music building, there is a different essence– an overwhelming feeling that amazing musicians have performed there, whether it be with their hands or voices.

Sac State’s a cappella club is no exception; beautifully layering different sounds and styles of music that coincide smoothly between 14 students.

The a cappella club started in 2003 and over the years have performed at the Reno Jazz Festival and the Monterey Jazz Festival. The club also has the opportunity to record every year.

Club President Christian Carreon works closely with Group Director Gaw Vang Williams, running rehearsals and meetings, while Treasurer Gellimy Sescon monitors the funds.

“[The club] is open to everyone on campus regardless on whether or not you’re a music major,” said Carreon.

They have won 12 DownBeat music awards and will be going on a recruiting tour at the end of March.

“We went on a high school recruiting tour and most of the people in our group this semester are freshmen in college, and they are from among the schools we went to,” said Sescon. “Expanding the jazz community among students our age is really a top goal for almost every jazz group out there. It’s too beautiful not to be shared.”

The a cappella club’s meetings can be better described as their rehearsal time. The group meets up to get their songs just right on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays.

As each member enters the music room, the chairs start coming together into an arch. Each student sitting side by side with an even distribution of female and male vocalists.

On the far left are the sopranos followed by the alto with tenors filling in the middle. The baritone and bass vocalists complete the arch on the right side.

Before the a cappella club starts to rehearse, the synchronization of the group is already noticeable: each one in their comfort zone, all helping each other work as a unit, laughing and joking.

The first couple notes sang by the club not only reflected the talent of Sac State’s music program, but the unison that is key to their success.

However, it seems unity is only part of what makes their club and environment so positive.

Williams keeps everybody in check, but more importantly, in sync. She makes sure the vocalists have each note precisely in tune with each other, while also encouraging them to strive for their best.

“I want you guys to do something more challenging, because you’re better than that,” Williams said to the group.

The club touches on different styles of music from jazz, scat singing and beatboxing, to an a cappella assortment of Daft Punk hits, all the while their voices mimic the sounds of instruments.

Williams works closely with each member helping them tune their voices to flow as one sound. Her high hopes reflect the positive attitudes of each member.

The a cappella club can be heard live on May 15 at the Jazz Ensemble’s concert in the Music Recital Hall on campus.

“The biggest accomplishment will always be the joy of performing in a group and making beautiful art through music and being able to inspire others, especially other musicians out there,” said Sescon.