You’d be wrong in thinking that a lack of instruments simplifies things in a musical group. In fact, it only further exposes and highlights vocals so it’s even more important to be on key, which is what makes watching Abu Dhabi’s two main a capella groups, Voices of Harmony and Blue Fever, so absorbing
Who? Voices of Harmony (VoH), an all women’s barbershop group now in its 6th year, and Blue Fever (BF), an a capella jazz ensemble founded under VoH in 2009. Both have performed all over Abu Dhabi.
A little background ...
With members hailing from across the world, both groups were founded by avid a capella fan and experienced singer Laura Roberts. “I had sung in a barbershop group in the US and loved it so much I brought the music with me to Abu Dhabi. I grabbed some musically talented friends and we tested the waters.” Et voila. “Blue Fever came later. Intrigued by “Manhattan Transfer” and a number of jazz a cappella groups, I asked a member of VoH, Lene Bjarke Skov to get a group started. Chris Lemar now sings with and directs the group.”
On performing in Abu Dhabi:
“In most other places, a cappella usually has a fairly small but dedicated following, but in Abu Dhabi most people are unfamiliar with the format,” says Sean of BF. But ADMAF recognises their potential and has offered huge support, allowing them spots in their last two festivals and funding a stellar show at the Armed Forces Officer’s Club last month.
Where to find them? They hold a few concerts throughout the year but mostly operate on a freelance basis. For more information or to book them (they’re also looking for members), call founder Laura Roberts on 050 442 0029.
