Frequency Rising

When we’re talking about a cappella, we’re talking about regionals, jazz hands, five-part harmonies. But don’t be mistaken, this isn’t anything like Pitch Perfect–

Actually…never mind. It kind of is.

At least according to the leaders of Pace’s NYC a cappella group Frequency, Mia Lastrella ’24 and Saloni Shah ‘24. This was their first year as the group’s leaders, and their first time attending the International Championship of Collegiate A Cappella (ICCA) Northeast Quarterfinals. “We were just told it was just like Pitch Perfect,” Shah explains, “and it really was, right down to the goofy person hosting it.” Aca-awesome.

Frequency formed back in 2017 but membership dwindled over the years—especially during the pandemic. Shah and Lastrella both joined in 2020, after the group began meeting virtually. With membership falling, they decided to take over and re-launch the group.

“Frequency is a place to build family and make your soul happy.”

Now, Frequency has 22 members, 18 of whom competed on March 5 in the ICCA Northeast Quarterfinals against nine other teams. It was nearly every member’s first time competing at all—and, nerve-rackingly, they were randomly selected to perform first. That didn’t stop them. Their pop-medley, including a jazzy rendition of Britney Spears’ Toxic, clinched third place for the team. What’s more, their enthusiasm garnered an invitation to the semifinals in Boston, despite historically being offered only to first and second place.

Despite their success, the group has always focused more on creativity than competition. “A lot of our members are non-musical theater or performance majors,” Lastrella explains. “It’s just a great outlet for them. For some people it’s the only non-STEM part of their day.”

Shah and Lastrella both hope to see Frequency continue to grow, and they’re seeking music-loving members who want a creative outlet with a focus on community and fun. And in return, new members will find a melodious welcome. As Shah says, “Frequency is a place to build family and make your soul happy.”

To learn more or join Frequency, email pacefrequency@gmail.com or follow them on Instagram.