Letting Their Voices Shine: Trillium A Capella

A Denton County-based group has won Second Place and Best Choreography consecutively in 2023 and 2024 at Voice Jam. They’ve also been nominated for various CARA and AVA awards. This dynamic group of hardworking young talents who balance study and work—some juggling multiple jobs—has united through their shared passion for music. 

“It has not been easy, but it is so rewarding to create what you love with the friends you’ve surrounded yourself with. We come from high school groups that our directors would choose the members and music for, and now having that freedom to be around a chosen family and getting to create the music we all like has been so fun,” shared Hannah Howard, a soprano who founded Trillium in June 2022 with her friend Wennie Grogan.

Trillium specializes in pop and alternative pop music and is open to singing in almost every genre. They are a preferred group to perform in local gatherings. Trillium has also released its debut single and official music video, “bet u wanna,” which is up on all streaming channels. 

Music serves as a safe space for these young individuals. They gather two to three times a week to practice and         discuss ways to improve and grow together with Trillium. Their strong friendship has not only contributed to the band’s success but has also imparted invaluable life lessons along the way. They have discovered that music has enhanced their ability to perform better in all areas. They feel fortunate to receive outstanding support from their families and the community. The team learns the music from their music director, Aimee Gray, and their arranger, BXTR Productions.

“We practice every time we meet, but it doesn’t feel like practice — it feels like I’m hanging out with my friends,” said tenor Cole Molhoek. 

“I have connected with the group more than ever before, and I truly feel like they are the best thing that’s happened to me. I wouldn’t trade this group for the world,” Soprano Ally Horton said.

Gabi Kooiman, an alto singer, handles the band’s marketing and choreography. She believes that music is a shared experience that has made her more empathetic, even towards issues she may not relate to. Baritone Gavin Schnackenberg and Tenor Samir Mumtaz feel deeply grateful to be surrounded by their closest friends with whom they have lived out their passion  for music. 

“The best thing that’s ever happened to me is getting to work alongside my beautiful friends, creating something unique,” Caden Smith, a vocal percussionist, added. Other members of Trillium include Joseph Hughes (sound engineer, bass), Madelyn Tubb (soprano), and Aimee Gray (co-choreographer, alto).

The term “a capella” refers to “singing without instrumental accompaniment,” where singers rely solely on their voices to create music. “A capella adds a challenge that regular music performance doesn’t have. As a capella singers, we don’t have any other instrument but our voices. Although I believe all performing requires a lot of focus, I think a capella requires even more because of the lack of instrumental support,” Wennie added.

Trillium is currently competing in the International Competition of Collegiate A Capella (ICCA). They placed 2nd in their quarterfinals in San Antonio, which ranks the band in the top 10 groups in the Southwest. Gabi and the music director, Aimee, also received the Outstanding Choreography award. The group is planning to host a fundraising concert for the semifinals in Arizona. Hannah, Wennie, and the members are grateful for the consistent support they’ve received from the locals. They all are committed to their commitment to music and want to keep giving back to the community. 

“Everyone we’ve had the pleasure to cross paths with has brought us so much joy; community is everything in a capella,” Hannah said. 

“Music is one of the most beautiful things this world offers. It’s more than words and notes on a page. It’s a way to express yourself, connect with others, get in touch with your emotions, and so much more,” Ally said. 

“To whoever is reading this, be the light in the darkness. You never know who you’ll impact,” Caden said. 

To support these young talents, visit their social media pages:

Facebook @Trillium.ACapella

Instagram @Trillium.ACA

YouTube @Trillium.ACapella