Today we’d like to introduce you to Dylan Beck
Hi Dylan, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start, maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers.
Founded in 1996, The SoCal VoCals is the University of Southern California’s premiere a cappella group, composed of students who major in all disciplines. Previous generations of VoCals have made their mark at venues such as the Hollywood Bowl, Lincoln Center, Staples Center, and Carnegie Hall, to name a few. In recent years, the group has sung for President Obama and First Lady, toured Hong Kong and London, been featured on NBC’s The Sing-Off, and gone on to win multiple Grammy awards. Undoubtedly, the group has gained its recognition from success through the International Collegiate Competition of A Cappella, garnering five consecutive first place wins. Above all, the VoCals are about making music and having a good time!
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way? Looking back, would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
Balancing academic studies with music/performing can certainly present its challenges. And since our group attracts students from all majors, scheduling rehearsals and performances is tough, but ultimately makes it all the more meaningful and fulfilling when we do get that time together, whether it be for making music or just getting closer as a group.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar, what can you tell them about what you do?
Apart from weekly rehearsals and learning new arrangements, the group is happy to perform as entertainment both in and outside of our USC community! In the past year alone, we’ve traveled and performed throughout California, Oregon, and New York City! Something we’re most proud of is the connections we’ve built not only within the current group and its members but outside of it as well. We have such a loving and strong alumni network who are always there for us whenever we need help with anything: arrangements, gig opportunities, or even non-music-related career advice! We are also lucky to have built a strong camaraderie with other a cappella groups across the country through our shared love of music.
Are there any important lessons you’ve learned that you can share with us?
If you’re passionate about something, pursue it as much as you can—our group is made up of all different types of majors, and this group gives us an outlet and a space to pursue our passion for music with a beyond-talented group of amazing humans. When committed to a collective goal, we stand our most united; the power of community is apparent through our shared and divergent experiences, and ultimately, we share our music in hopes of inspiring others and affecting local change.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://socalvocals.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thesocalvocals?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@SCVOCALS
- Other: https://open.spotify.com/artist/5L30XpwHG77eWCZtelTns9?si=FNVSaY1qT7y4edyMXU8gxA
Image Credits
Ben Wolf
Emily Kwong
