May 8, 2025 — Sonic Edge, the 17-member award-winning contemporary a cappella group from the Cobb County Center for Excellence in the Performing Arts (CCCEPA) at Pebblebrook High School, has achieved a remarkable feat—winning the International Championship of High School A Cappella (ICHSA) for the second year in a row!
Sonic Edge is a unique group comprising students from nearly every major within the CCCEPA program, not just vocal majors. Despite having other responsibilities within the program, each prepares at the same high level. Their collective artistry reflects an incredibly high standard and shows versatility and discipline that is nothing short of inspiring.
Their path to this year’s championship began in October when they submitted their audition video for the prestigious competition. After being accepted, the group immediately got to work, preparing for their first competition in February.
On February 7th, Sonic Edge traveled to Knoxville, Tennessee, to compete in one of three Southern Quarterfinals. The competition was fierce, with 10 other groups from across the region vying for a spot in the semifinals. However, Sonic Edge stole the show by receiving the highest score of any group in any quarterfinal, advancing to the next round. In addition, Elise Lloyd was awarded Best Soloist for her outstanding performance.
Returning to Pebblebrook after the quarterfinals, the group quickly shifted gears to prepare for the Semifinal Round. The semifinals featured the top three groups from each southern quarterfinal, along with one wild-card winner. On March 6th, Sonic Edge traveled to Durham, North Carolina, where they faced even more rigorous competition. Yet again, Sonic Edge came out on top, winning the competition with the highest score of any semifinal in the nation. Amber Lowe earned the award for Best Vocal Percussionist, while the group was recognized for Best Choreography for their entire set.
Next on their agenda was the National A Cappella and Choral Convention (NACC), where Sonic Edge was selected as featured performers on the main stage. The group also participated in masterclasses to perfect their winning set, further honing their craft ahead of the biggest challenge yet—the ICHSA Finals in New York City.
On April 24, 2025, Sonic Edge boarded a plane bound for the Big Apple to defend their national title. The competition at the finals was fierce, with each group representing their region’s champion and two wild-card winners. Despite the stiff competition, Sonic Edge delivered an undeniable performance, reclaiming their title as ICHSA Champions for the second consecutive year. Amber Lowe was again recognized as Best Vocal Percussionist.
As an additional honor, Sonic Edge was selected to return the following evening to perform their set for the International Championship of Collegiate A Cappella (ICCA) competition.
"I am beyond proud of the incredible success of our Sonic Edge students," said CCCEPA Director Robert Connor. "They have poured their hearts into this year’s work, showing unwavering dedication and passion. This win is not just about a trophy—it's a testament to their hard work, their resilience, and the world-class training they’ve received through CCCEPA. While some faces may have changed, the standard of excellence has not—and that’s largely due to the masterful leadership of our vocal program, led by the phenomenal Mr. Trey Giddens."
"This 17-member ensemble has worked incredibly hard this year," said Mr. Giddens, CCCEPA's Director of Vocal Music. "The group has sacrificed and really put in the time to become undeniable. They have had rehearsals around their busy performance schedule, often practicing from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. several nights a week and on weekends. Their dedication to this group and their craft is unmatched, and I am so proud of them."
With their victory, Sonic Edge has proven they are a remarkable force in the a cappella world. Their journey to becoming ICHSA champions once again showcases their talent, teamwork, and unwavering commitment to excellence.
"Moments like these affirm our mission: to expose students to the highest quality fine arts education and training—and then let them soar. Over the past four years, I’ve watched this program blossom into something truly beautiful, and I could not be prouder to serve and support these remarkable young artists," said Director Connor in closing about his two-time champs.
Special thanks to Ian Shiff for the photos
