Counterparts to sing the blues

After months of practice, Counterparts is set to give students quite a show this weekend with their newest repertoire of a cappella ensembles. Counterparts will perform on both Friday and Saturday nights at 8:15pm in the Dunlop Auditorium. Guest groups will include University of Virginia's all-female Silhooettes, Tuft's all-male Beelzebubs and the University's own Chord On Blues. This year's fall show, said Music Director Sangho Byun, incorporates a strong base of jazz with some blues and contemporary pieces. The group made a concerted effort this year to move away from conservative music choices. The addition of more blues and contemporary works brings the songs of such popular artists as B.B. King, Peter Gabriel and Howard Jones to the performance. "We think our choice [of music] will have much greater appeal to Penn students," said Counterparts President Bennett Viseltear, a College senior. "We really have something for everyone." In its thirteenth year, the group's 13 members are both male and female, and of all ages in the University's undergraduate schools. This year, the group acquired four new women from their fall auditions. Guest group the Beelzebubs, or "Bubs," is Tuft's all-male a cappella ensemble. The group specializes in pop and contemporary pieces. Known as one of the better all-male groups in the country, the Beelzebubs are often winners of the "Best All-Male" category, a prize given by the Contemporary A Cappella Society of America. The Silhooettes from the University of Virginia are also nationally-known as a consistently top-ranking female group. Counterparts was named "Best Mixed A Cappella Group" last year by the society. Byun commented that, "Not only is this the most solid mix we've ever done, but it is also the best set of guest groups we've ever had. The audience should expect a good show." Tickets are on sale on Locust Walk this week for $5, and will also be sold at the doors on Friday and Saturday nights in Dunlop Auditorium.