The history of the AACC begins with the history of The Harmonizers, the TTBB chorus. The Harmonizers were founded in 1948 as a traditional barbershop chorus and member chapter of the Barbershop Harmony Society. Over their more than 75-year history they have risen to become one of the leading choruses in that Society, winning more than twenty competition medals – including four first-place gold medals – in five different decades. Led by Artistic Director Joe Cerutti since 2007, The Harmonizers have performed at prestigious venues including the White House, Wolf Trap, Strathmore Arts Center, Carnegie Hall, and the Kennedy Center. No longer “just” a traditional barbershop chorus, The Harmonizers have undertaken innovative projects including collaborating with Broadway stars in professional productions and several international tours.
In 2023, guided by Cerutti’s vision to make close harmony singing available to a wider range of singers and audiences, The Harmonizers formed an umbrella organization, the Alexandria A Cappella Collective, envisioning it as a place that will be home to multiple ensembles including The Harmonizers. Metro Voices, the SSAA ensemble, was then founded as the first new ensemble in the AACC. Led by director Samantha Tramack since 2023, Metro Voices is quickly establishing itself as a leader in the a cappella world. They are the 2025 Mid-Atlantic District Southern Division BHS champions, and in 2026 will compete at the BHS International Convention, having qualified on their first attempt.
In 2024 the AACC founded its third ensemble, Capital Force, a seasonal youth chorus made up of 7th-12th graders from around the D.C. area. Under the direction of Tessa Walker, Capital Force provides the opportunity for students to experience the joys of a cappella singing and hone their musical skills in a positive and welcoming environment. Capital Force rehearses and performs during the school year, with their season culminating in a spring showcase.
The future shines bright at the AACC, as we continue to fulfill our mission of “enriching lives through vocal harmony in the greater D.C. area.”
