I should probably start this by admitting I have never once sang professionally in my life.
Sure, I’m a die-hard shower crooner, but I wouldn’t count my Adele rendition in a list of “stage experiences”.
Nevertheless, there’s something quite amazing about a capella and the enormous amount of skill behind it.
So when I was asked if I would like to take part in a singing lesson with the Oxford Belles to celebrate the launch of Pitch Perfect 3 on DVD, I jumped at the chance.
I should say: I’m a pretty big fan of the aca-franchise.
Anna Kendrick has become somewhat of an idol since she became associated with the film.
Her performances as Beca have been completely fantastic through the three films and I can’t think of anyone who would embody the honesty and talent in the same way she does.
But having tried my hand at a capella, my respect for her has gone through the roof.
The religious-born style of singing has rose into the public conscious following the franchise’s success.
And it’s a complete skill – there’s no two ways about it, this is one talented lady.
After watching the Oxford Belles perform How A Heart Unbreaks (originally sang by Ruby Rose in Pitch Perfect 3), I daresay I tempted fate by thinking: “That doesn’t seem too bad.”
It’s safe to say I was wrong on so many levels.
After being declared a “Soprano” (something I still don’t really believe today), we set about learning our individual parts.
Although my section wasn’t particularly lengthy, my two Soprano mentors tried their best to show me how each “dum” and “do” would fit in – something which seemed impossible without hearing the rest of the vocals for guidance.
I was completely baffled and realised just how hard it is to keep a tune when there’s no reference.
Still, I persevered and with some practice for all of 20 minutes, seemed to have it roughly nailed down.
Whatever I thought I had, I really didn’t, and when the whole piece was put together, it’s incredibly challenging to put everything together when someone else is singing other notes and patterns in your ear.
The sound of 20 plus voices singing in harmony sounded genuinely beautiful – and it was pretty magical to be a part of.
Save the odd bum-note here and there (sorry team), I’m not ashamed to say we completely nailed it.
On the way home I found myself humming along to my unique harmony on the London Underground, blissfully unaware of anyone watching me.
And there lies the magic of a capella. It’s why Pitch Perfect has been such a success and why fans are crying out for even more movies.
It’s aca-brilliant and everyone should try their hand at trying it, even if you’re like me and don’t have one musical bone in your body.
Pitch Perfect 3 is available on Digital, Blu-Ray and DVD now from Universal Pictures (UK).
