AWARDS/ACCOLADES

“There are two things that I love more than anything, they are making music and hanging out with friends. I am lucky enough to get to do both in KC A Cappella (KCAC). I had first heard about KCAC through one of my friends in the group at the time, he told me I should audition and I thought, why not? I auditioned for the group and felt tremendous amounts of joy and excitement once I received the email of my acceptance into the group. Auditioning to be a member of KCAC will forever be one of the best and easiest decisions I have ever made. I have gotten to make both award-winning music and lifelong friendships and memories that I will never forget. I have been a member of KCAC since my sophomore year, and as I enter my third and final year with the group I cannot wait to see what all we accomplish and could not think of a better way to close out my senior year with the best and most talented group of people.”

– Finley Pennington
(Current Member – 2026 Graduate)

“There is nothing better than exploring music, collaborating, and turning music on a page into a full production. In just one year, KC A Cappella has tremendously molded me into a person who values focus, precision, and dedication in a musical environment, and beyond. James has cultivated a judgement-free environment where we can freely explore our voices and uncover new strengths and gifts, and for that I am eternally grateful. I will take an abundance of knowledge, lessons, skills, and fond memories from my time with KC A Cappella.”

– Jalen Mack
(2025 Graduate)

“When people ask me ‘What do you do in your free time’, the first activity that comes to my mind is KC A Cappella (KCAC). Going into KCAC, I was very nervous about working with everyone. However, walking into the first day of rehearsals, I was greeted with smiling faces and an energy full of excitement and passion. I knew at that moment: I found my people. KCAC helped me grow both as a musician and a teammate. I met some of my closest friends and have created some of my favorite memories at KCAC rehearsals and competitions. Working with James has also taught me it’s possible to work professionally and productively while also having fun. I truly don’t know what I would’ve done without KCAC and couldn’t be more thankful for how it’s helped me grow as a person.”

– Gretchen Nessinger
(2025 Graduate)

“My son has been honored to be part of Kansas City A Cappella (KCAC) for the past three years. It is such an incredible opportunity for these high schoolers to meet other singers from all around the city with the same passion for music. They work so hard and their performances are truly spectacular. It is my son’s favorite activity that he does and our whole family feels part of this incredible organization. We love the friendships that we all have made through KCAC. Not only is it great training for these children to work with such a dedicated music director as James Levy, but they have tons of fun and have opportunities to perform all around the city…and potentially the country if they advance in competitions. It has broadened my son’s musicality by learning a music genre that he isn’t offered at school and given him a love for a cappella music. He’s always loved harmonies and this group is exceptional when it comes to creating beautiful, complex music.”

– Jenny Azima Kukendall
(Parent of Current Member)

“My three years with KC A Cappella profoundly transformed my high school experience, and without it, I would not have been the person I am today. It provided a space where creativity could thrive. James fostered an atmosphere of encouragement and exploration, pushing me and others to refine their artistic skills and embrace new techniques. KCAC is more than just an acapella group; it’s a transformative ground for creativity and self-discovery, inspiring individuality and growth.”

– Mia Cabrera Davila
(2024 Graduate)

“Our daughter was part of Kansas City A Cappella SoundProof (KCAC) for two years and truly loved the entire experience. Director James Levy has built an all-star team in Weston, Jerry, and Tori that the kids can relate to and draw from their talents. The kids particularly enjoyed getting to know peers from other schools and they became great friends. James coaches so well and brings out the best in all of these uber-talented kids! James is also a great communicator to the kids and families and teaches discipline through his high expectations. KCAC is such a supportive and inclusive community and our family feels fortunate to have been afforded this opportunity. Five Stars, highly recommend it!!!”

– Jill Wood
(Parent of Former Member)