In the artist's studio with Alison Kuzara '11

Major: German and History House: Wilson House

When and how did you begin singing?

My first experience singing was in my church back home. In the Episcopal Church, the congregation sings several hymns at each service and depending on what the Pastor wants to do a lot of the service itself can be sung through. Our Pastor growing up would sing through the Communion and the congregation would sing its response back to him. I can still sing some of the service today.

When did you become a member of the Vibes?

I tried out for the college Chorus my first year at Smith, but after a youth full of large choral groups in church and at school I decided that I wanted to try something different. I had never encountered a capella before Smith, but it instantly captured my attention once I decided that I needed something new musically.

Why did you choose the Vibes over other a capella groups?

The group's repertoire was definitely a major deciding factor. I didn't want to commit to a group if I wasn't enthused by the songs that we would spend our time learning and the Vibes have a lot of popular songs that people like to listen to and sing along with. I like that we can do something as classic as "'Ain't No Mountain High Enough" and then transition into something more modern such as "Apologize".

Do you have a favorite song to perform with the group?

I like performing our medleys the most since we get to showcase more of the talent in our group with them. We have one medley - "Grind With Me" by Pretty Ricky, "Birthday Sex" by Jeremih, and "Skin" by R. Kelly - that is basically a sex medley and then another throwback to the nineties one with "Tearin Up My Heart" by 'N Sync, "Say My Name" by Destiny's Child and a snippet of "Want You Back," also by 'N Sync.

Will you continue singing with organized groups after Smith?

I honestly have no idea. I first have to figure out where I'll be after I graduate, but once I'm settled somewhere I'll probably go hunting for another group to join. Or I'll stick to the karaoke circuit. Either one is possible.

Do the Vibes have any upcoming shows?

We have our Spring Jam this Friday, April 8 at 7:30 p.m. in Stoddard Hall. The theme is Law and Order SVU: Special Vibes Unit, so you can expect some crime-solving skits and an homage to the show's famous intro.