A cappella is still a relatively new activity to most colleges in the southwestern U.S., but it's certainly not for lack of talent. 

After four strong quarterfinals, the top eight groups in the International Championship of Collegiate A Cappella Southwest region have emerged to compete in the semifinals at the Herberger Theater Center in Phoenix on March 31.

The winning group will advance to the 2018 ICCA Finals at the Beacon Theatre in New York on April 21.

Beyond Measure

Brigham Young University
Quarterfinal Score: 438

Surrounded by legacy of the Brigham Young a cappella dynasty, Beyond Measure is an independent a cappella group that quick went from new to nationally ranked. Eric Corpuz was awarded Outstanding Choreography for the entire set and the group handedly won its quarterfinal.

The Highlanders

Northern Arizona University
Quarterfinal Score: 347

Handsome, rugged, and ready to woo, the NAU Highlanders took home second place at their quarterfinal.

The Rice Philharmonics

Rice University
Quarterfinal Score: 412

Founded in 1994, the Rice Phils have grown into a strong group in Houston and beyond, performing songs from all influences. In the quarterfinals, Munachismo Uzodike was awarded Outstanding Soloist for her take on “Final Song.”

Millennial Vibe

Hastings College
Quarterfinal Score: 404

A bit untraditional for collegiate groups, this five-member band is brand new to the a cappella community. Andrew Koubek won Outstanding Vocal Percussion for his group's entire set.

The TEMPEtations

Arizona State University
Quarterfinal Score: 374

A true standout performance earned this group a win at its quarterfinal — clean, full of joy, and well executed. The TEMPEtations’ Jacob Browning won Outstanding Arrangement for his interpretation of “Pure Imagination.”

Northern Arizona Unaccompanied

Northern Arizona University
Quarterfinal Score: 354

Another smaller group, this octet really engaged the audience and wowed with dynamics in its second-place quarterfinal set. 

One Note Stand

University of Texas at Austin
Quarterfinal Score: 422

Competitive since its beginnings in 2009, One Night Stand is a self-funded group that champions the “Emotional Journey.” Aside from its outstanding live performances, the group also appeared on BOCA and Voices Only. One Night Stand took home Outstanding Choreography for “Conscious” at its quarterfinal.

RISE

University of Texas at Arlington
Quarterfinal Score: 385

The only contemporary a cappella group on the UT Arlington campus, RISE was founded in 2016 by Caleb Moore, who was honored with Outstanding Arrangement for the group's entire set at quarterfinals.