Ars Nova, The Miami Valley School’s accomplished a cappella group has started the 2019/2020 school year on a high note.

Earlier this month, the group performed at The Greene. Last week, they volunteered as the host group for the Barbershop Harmony Society’s Johnny Appleseed District Regional Competition. They assisted in managing the competitions for local quartets and choruses, and were able to perform for feedback from the panel of judges.

All this leading up to November, when the group will participate along with the strongest high school a cappella groups in the country at The Kettering A Cappella Festival on November 8-9. The festival, which takes place at Trent Arena in The Miami Valley Schools own community, is the premier national educational event for a cappella.

Ars Nova has attended each of the five years it has been in existence, and will perform at the Friday Night Showcase along with some of the other top a cappella groups in the country.

The event will feature classes, workshops and concerts, including shows by Stiletta from NYC and Rockapella of “Where in the World is Carmen Sandiego” fame.

“The group is looking really strong this year,” said Faculty mentor Christopher Diaz, himself a renowned vocalist, arranger, producer, composer and vocal coach. Diaz graduated from the Florida State University with a bachelor’s degree in Vocal Performance. He has worked on NBC’s The Sing-Off, toured with his band The Exchange, and worked with the U.S. Department of State to engage underserved communities through cultural tours. Diaz has traveled to more than 50 countries using a cappella music to inspire and connect.

“We are so proud of what Ars Nova has been able to accomplish for The Miami Valley School,” said Head of School Elizabeth Cleary. “The group is such a beautiful example of the talent and dedication of this student body and the great things it has been able to achieve on a national scale.”