Acapella

Acapella is a term used for vocal music performed without instrumental accompaniment. The spelling acapella is a common English variant of the Italian a cappella, which literally means “in the chapel” and refers to the tradition of singing in chapels where voices were the sole musical texture. In contemporary usage, acapella can describe both traditional unaccompanied singing and modern arrangements that rely on voice rather than instruments, though some performances may include vocal percussion or beatboxing rather than traditional instruments.

Performance practices center on vocal blend, accurate intonation, diction, rhythm, and dynamic contrast. Arrangements assign parts to vocal ranges such as soprano, alto, tenor, and bass, with singers often doubling lines or creating full harmonies. Repertoires range from Renaissance sacred polyphony and madrigals to folk songs, barbershop, doo-wop, vocal jazz, and contemporary pop and film music. Modern acapella groups may incorporate studio techniques like beatboxing, looping, or digitally processed vocal tracks, especially in recorded and televised contexts, though many performances remain strictly unaccompanied.

History and development reflect a long-standing tradition of voice-only singing. Early practices emphasized liturgical and secular vocal music, while the 20th and 21st centuries saw a revival and expansion through collegiate and community groups, professional ensembles, and online performances that broadened access and popularity. Acapella remains a prominent form in music education, competitions, concerts, and informal performance settings.