A SINGER from Stratford is hoping to follow in the footsteps of The Beatles.
Henry Edwards is a member of a cappella group Semi-Toned, who are taking part in a new Sky One programme to find out the country’s best vocal group.
And if the Exeter University-based group win Sing: Ultimate A Cappella they will get a chance to record an album at the world-famous Abbey Road studios.
This is not Semi-Toned’s first foray into the world of TV. The students were crowned winners of Gareth Malone’s UK-wide search for the nation’s best choir on BBC2 last December.
The ten strong group, aged 18 to 22, is one of the country’s most established university a cappella ensembles, after being formed in 2010 as a barbershop quintet.
Semi-Toned, never seen without their signature burgundy blazers, have showcased their slick harmonies and dance moves throughout the UK and USA.
Former KES pupil Henry is president of Semi Toned. He is studying English and Drama and plans to join the Royal Navy when he graduates next year.
He said: “Being part of the show was fantastic, but incredibly hard work. We’re really proud that we got picked to take part.
“We loved performing and getting the chance to sing some iconic songs in front of such an enthusiastic crowd.”
Sing: Ultimate A Cappella, hosted by Cat Deeley, was recorded in a London theatre during the summer and is being shown each Friday evening. It is billed as the UK’s first vocals-only entertainment competition with no backing tracks and no instruments.
The series aims to test the power and versatility of the human voice, with 30 groups using beatboxing, harmonies, choreography and more to perform songs by artists from David Bowie to the Backstreet Boys.
The winners from each of the six heats will be pitted against each other in the final.
