My aunt is the director of the acapella group Black Voices. I was so struck by them as a child. They sang with such passion and conviction. By the time I turned 15, I had plucked up the courage to ask if I could join the group. Acapella is a different discipline from singing with an accompaniment - it is much more exposed.

In this quote, Laura Mvula reflects on her early exposure to music and the influence of her aunt, who was the director of the acapella group Black Voices. Mvula describes how, as a child, she was deeply moved by the group's passion and conviction in their performances. This experience left a lasting impression on her, sparking a desire to be part of something that conveyed such strong emotion through music. The group’s ability to create powerful sound without the support of instruments was a key element that intrigued her.

By the age of 15, Mvula found the courage to approach her aunt and ask if she could join the group. This moment represents a significant turning point in Mvula’s life, as it took bravery to take the initiative and step out of her comfort zone to pursue something that had so deeply inspired her. Her words suggest that the act of joining the group wasn’t just about learning to sing—it was about gaining the confidence to share her voice and fully engage in the art of music.

Mvula also points out the unique nature of acapella music, emphasizing how it differs from traditional singing with an accompaniment. In acapella, there are no instruments to fall back on, making the performance much more exposed and vulnerable. This lack of musical support requires a higher level of discipline and skill, as the singers must create harmony and rhythm solely with their voices. Mvula’s recognition of this distinction reflects her understanding of the technical and emotional challenges involved in acapella performance.

Ultimately, the quote highlights the transformative power of music, the courage it takes to pursue one’s passions, and the deep respect Mvula has for the acapella tradition. It shows how early experiences, combined with the mentorship of a family member, can inspire a lasting commitment to a musical discipline and lead to personal growth and artistic expression.