Vocal Rush

 A Cappella Ensemble  • First Time Art Party Participant

Music Video

Vocal Rush’s Website

www.facebook.com/osavocalrush

About Vocal Rush

Vocal Rush is a four-time national champion a cappella ensemble based out of Oakland School for the Arts (OSA) and comprises singers ages 16-18. Combining passion, talent and dedication, along with the vision of director/founder Lisa Forkish, Vocal Rush has become one of the most respected high school a cappella groups in the U.S. since their inception in March, 2011. Before joining the renowned School of Vocal Music faculty at OSA, led by chair/founder Cava Menzies, Forkish was music director for the University of Oregon’s award-winning a cappella group Divisi, featured in Mickey Rapkin’s book, Pitch Perfect, later made into the box-office smash film. Vocal Rush has received numerous accolades, including national championship titles in 2012, 2013, 2015 and 2016, a first place win at the L.A. A Cappella Festival, and  perhaps most notably, a third place win on NBC’s hit a cappella competition show, The Sing-Off. Past members of Vocal Rush have performed for President Obama as well as OSA founder, California Governor Jerry Brown. The group has released two full-length albums and one EP (all available on iTunes) and has been nominated for six Contemporary A Cappella Recording Awards, including Best High School Album. The ensemble has the soulful stage presence that reflects all that is unique to OSA and sets them apart in the a cappella scene. Vocal Rush brings to life the heart and soul of Oakland School for the Arts, putting their all into every performance. 

“Vocal Rush is reminding the world that impressive scholastic a cappella extends beyond the collegiate realm, and they’re doing so in the funkiest way possible.” – A Cappella Records

“These kids better SING!” – Avi Kaplan (Pentatonix)

“The monstrously talented OSA Vocal Rush!’ — Delta Rae (roots/rock band, VH1 featured artist)

“Really cool distinctive, high attitude sound, with a lot of swagger to it.” — A Cappella Blog

“Literally the most talented group of high schoolers I’ve ever met. Wow.” – Scott Hoying (Pentatonix)

“You’re not killing the game, you’re rewriting the book!” – Deke Sharon (Pitch Perfect, The Sing-Off)