4O6–pronounced four-oh-six–is the competitive sub-group of Bradley University’s Dynamix A Cappella club. They are a co-ed, student-run group that performs throughout their home campus and the greater Peoria area, singing a variety of genres including pop, rock, jazz, and a cappella classics. Their 11 members range from music majors to first-time performers. This will be their first time competing in an a cappella competition, as their group was just recently formed last year, though you might recognize them from their guest performance at the 2025 Harmony Sweepstakes competition. 4O6 is thrilled to be back, and they wish all the competing groups the best of luck.
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Members: Mars Heath, Grace Leonard, Olivia Williams, Kaitlyn Bell, Audrey Drake, Diamanda Vavilis, Shelcy Altis, Bruce Smolucha, Christopher Leatherwood, Casper Chhe, Sean Crawford

Linc 182 is a new and exciting acapella ensemble, mostly versed in the barbershop style of singing.  Linc 182 began as a virtual quartet during the pandemic as a musical outlet for their 8 year old (at the time) tenor singer.  They recently won the 2023 Illinois District State Barbershop Quartet Contest and qualified/competed at the 2024 International Quartet Contest.  Although fairly new, this quartet is full of experienced musicians, well at least 3/4 full.  The older members of the quartet have won multiple Illinois District barbershop quartet championships, competed Internationally, as well as won chorus championships with the award winning Sound of Illinois Chorus, located in Bloomington, Normal.  The Linc part of the quartet is 14 year old tenor, Lincoln Beutel, who is the son of the baritone, Tim Beutel.  Bass singer, Ben Light, is the brother in law of Tim as well.  And then there is Evan.  He sings the lead part and is not related to the other three at all, but we love him anyway.  We hope you enjoy the rich harmonies and spritely energy of Linc 182!
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Members: Lincoln Beutel, Evan Patrick, Benjamin Light, Timothy Beutel

Outbound A Cappella is a contemporary a cappella group based out of the Chicago suburbs. Founded in 2023, they are known to perform a diverse set of music, spanning various genres and decades.
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Members: Megan Ryan, Sabra Gerber, Ilana Bley, Marissa Buchan, Kendall Bregenzer, Courtney Tedesco, Anish Parikh, Jake Scheuring, Michael Severino, Scott Spector, Dan Kassel

Founded in 2018, The Patties met at DePaul University while pursuing degrees in vocal performance. They all have professional training in opera and musical theater and perform close-harmony vocal arrangements in Chicago and across the Midwest. Patties’ shows feature a wide variety of genres including songs made popular by the Andrews Sisters, jazz standards, golden age musical theater songs, a cappella, pop music and quirky covers. The Peppermint Patties won Third Place at the 2025 Chicago Harmony Sweepstakes.
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Members: Nikki Krzebiot, Daina Fischer, Anna Caldwell

Once, the most renowned a cappella group in the Midwest captivated the community of Milford, MI.  From 1998 to 2010, elmoTHUMM mesmerized audiences with their dynamic sound, intricate arrangements, and vibrant energy, earning numerous accolades, performing for dignitaries like the President of the United States, and television appearances including America’s Thanksgiving Day Parade. However, by 2010, differing personal aspirations led to the group’s disbandment.

Now, Greg, Jason, Ed, and Tre have reunited under the new name THUMMp, reigniting their passion for music. America should prepare for their triumphant return, as they bring with them a legacy that includes accolades such as the “Fan Favorite” at the Moscow International A Cappella Competition and victories at prestigious events like SingStrong and the Chicago Harmony Sweepstakes.
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Members: Greg Vaden, Jason Miller, Ed Pendleton, Tre Cruz

Vocalight is a five-member professional vocal band from Dayton, Ohio, known for its modern sound, elite musicianship, and electrifying live performances. Blending contemporary vocal music with a full band–style approach, Vocalight delivers a polished, high-energy experience that resonates with audiences nationwide—and with a rapidly growing global audience online.

Featuring two sets of siblings, the group’s natural chemistry creates exceptional blend, precision, and stage presence. With formal training in vocal performance, music education, and composition, Vocalight brings original arrangements to life through dynamic storytelling and refined artistry. Their engaging content and viral performances have earned them a strong, highly active social media following, connecting them with fans around the world.

Vocalight has toured extensively across the United States, performing in major cities including New York, Chicago, and Los Angeles. Their accolades include multiple Contemporary A Cappella Recording & Video Awards (CARAs), opening performances for pop and Grammy Award–winning artists, a feature in The New York Times, and appearances at iconic venues such as Carnegie Hall. Together, these accomplishments establish Vocalight as one of today’s premier contemporary vocal bands.
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 Members: Natalie DiPietro, Cara DiPietro, Sydney Korpusik, Sammy Villalva, Joel Korpusik

David Wilner competed in the Chicago Harmony Sweepstakes with Blind Man’s Bluff and Fiveplay, winning First Place, Audience Favorite, and Best Original Song with each group. During his six years in Blind Man’s Bluff, David toured nationally and recorded five albums. He also spent seven years with the classic rock quartet Ac•Rock, recording two albums. Today, David emcees events throughout the Chicagoland area and is the lead singer and pianist in the band Rock The Ivory. He has been the regional producer of the Chicago Harmony Sweepstakes since 2017.

MEET THE 2024 HARMONY SWEEPSTAKES NATIONAL CHAMPIONS!!  Remedy A Cappella is the University of Dayton’s premiere a cappella group. They are a co-ed ensemble that has found great success performing exciting arrangements of dark contemporary pop music. Since their founding in 2012, Remedy has built a history of competitive success, including their two-time victories at the Chicago Harmony Sweepstakes in 2015 and 2020, multiple-time ICCA regional championships, and numerous awards for individual performers. Remedy has also released an EP, “The Compilation,” on Spotify in the summer of 2021, featuring some of the group’s favorite arrangements. The group currently consists of nine members, all non-music majors, who dedicate their free time on campus to sharing their passion for music with each other and with audiences across the Midwest.

Members: Ariel Radinovic, Kate Proctor, Kate Tucker, Sarah Spaulding, Cedric Mwizerwa, Deven Cannon, Jeremy Page, Jack Lynch,  Evanson Good

MEET THE 2023 HARMONY SWEEPSTAKES NATIONAL CHAMPIONS!!  Radius, a dynamic 5-piece vocal band, emerged from the virtual realm in 2020 during the height of the pandemic. What began as a digital collaboration evolved into a powerhouse live performance group based in the vibrant musical hub of Chicago. Distinguished by their mesmerizing harmonies and innovative arrangements, Radius specializes in high-energy pop music that’s sure get everyone up on their feet. Radius is now touring nationally, headlining performing arts venues and schools, and teaching master classes to educate the next generation of a cappella superstars.

Members: Gabe Schonman, Ben Boutell, Ethan Mooney, Dylan Melville, Sam Baker

Polarity, Waverly High School’s premiere a cappella ensemble, is excited to return to the Harmony Sweepstakes family! Polarity meets after school twice a week to provide a quality a cappella experience to Waverly High School’s students. This highly competitive group performs in the community, at school events, private parties, and local competitions. Coming from all paths of the high school, Polarity instantly clicked. The group includes varsity athletes, theatre enthusiasts, honors students, marching band members, and active community members. Though pop a cappella has not gained popularity in southern Ohio, these students demonstrate their love and commitment to the art of making music! Hey, we’re just a bunch of small-town kids that like to sing! Members: Jayda Whitt, Sophie Thomas, Kaitlyn Miller, Jayden Steele, Grace Dickerson, Carson Kittaka, Carson Moore, Jack Pfeifer, Noah Clifton

(Our 2024 Champions also won in 2020!)  Remedy A Cappella is a co-ed contemporary a cappella group from the University of Dayton. Our members consist of undergraduates from around Ohio, from Chicago, Pittsburgh, and even the Netherlands! From many walks of life and representing a variety of majors, we enjoy making music and spending time together. We strive to captivate and entertain our audiences with our performances. Remedy is also proud to be the 2019 ICCA Midwest Quarterfinal Champions. Members: Kim Tielemans, Alex Golzynski, Katie Breslin, Alexis Taylor, Kat Smith, Sarah Yelsik, Cameron Page, Andy Villasenor, Angelo Knight, Chris Hemsath.

Our 2022 Champions also won in 2019!  Different line-up, equally incredible talent.  The 2019 group went on to take Third Place and Audience Favorite at the Harmony Sweepstakes National Finals!  Members: Camrin Craig, Fabiola Corwin, Mattie Elliott, Kayleah Shiland, Andrew Pfeifer, Jack Pfeifer, Noah Clifton.

MEET THE 2017 HARMONY SWEEPSTAKES NATIONAL CHAMPIONS!!  From soulful ballads, to blistering rock anthems, from jazz standards to chart-topping singles, The Sound Exchange does it all. Based out of the Twin Cities, this group brings dazzling harmonies and wisecracking audience interaction to every show and do it with joy and humor. Get ready for the hijinks and harmony of…The Sound Exchange. Members: Caleb Lee, Nick Bailey, Alicia Reneé, Eric Buegler, Paul Donnelly.