The music department has hosted Sing Strong since March 2009, and this year came back for another weekend of performances.

The sold-out weekend of March 24-27 presented five concerts along with over a dozen master-classes featuring solely the human voice.

“Styles include pop, jazz, rock, barbershop, reggae-tone, beatbox and more, all performed completely a cappella,” said choral director and Sing Strong co-producer Rita Gigliotti. “Many audience members have trouble believing that the sounds are completely vocal. Groups will use only their voices to perform leads, harmonies and to vocally imitate a virtual orchestra of sounds- including jazz trumpet, classical strings, distorted electric guitar and a full drum set– all without instruments of any kind.”

Friday performances included A Cappella Idol, and a cappella group competition rewarding the first place group $1,000.00.

Saturday matinee performances presented high school groups competing for trophies reviewed by the weekend judges.

“Saturday night performances (had) some of the best a cappella groups in the world and the music that was made is unbelievably amazing,” said junior Jasmine Roberts

Saturday night performances featured NBC’s “The Sing-Off” winners Pentatonix, MAXX Factor, Julia Easterlin, Alex Glenfield, Blue Jupiter, and others.

Junior Mustakil Ali won best male soloist for his performance in SMAC’s rendition of Robin Thicke’s “Angels.” The weekend came to a close with Sunday performances from Afro-Blue Vocal Band, and Pentatonix, among other artists.

Event profits go towards the Alzheimer’s Association, and local music programs including South Lakes choirs.

Gigliotti is proud of her students and believed the weekend was full of enjoyable experiences raising funds for an important reason.

“My students are inspired both musically and personally,” said Gigliotti. “It’s hard to believe we get to have this much fun for such a great cause.”