Leadership Team

Chakeal Gibson

Groove Theory President
Cgibso8@gmu.edu

Chakeal is the first and current student president of Groove Theory A Cappella!

"It's always been my dream to cultivate an environment for people of all backgrounds to feel safe express their artisry. Groove Theory is a dream come true it's an absolute pleasure getting to watch everyone smiles as they grow not only as musicians but as people as too. As I continue my journey as a music educator I hope to continue to give my all to supporting my dear friends here in Groove Theory." - Chakeal Gibson

Clayton Ives

Cives@gmu.edu

Assitant Director

Clayton is the first and current assistant director of Groove Theory

How would you describe experience with Groove Theory?

"Groove Theory is such a good experience. For me, it has taught me so much already about guiding a group through rehearsals" - Clayton Ives

What does it mean to you to be a leader of Groove Theory?

"I think being a leader means showing up and making sure that the music produced resonates with the members" - Clayton Ives

As a leader what is your goal for the ensemble?

"The goal is to set up an environment on campus where a group can sing all variety of styles reflecting the members and the campus as a whole" - Clayton Ives

Jamaya Edwards

Jedwar42@gmu.edu

Jamaya is the first and current vice-president of Groove Theory

How would you describe your experience in Groove Theory?

" To me it means that I always have an opportunity to grow into the person I want to be. It provides me space to make observations and make decisions with a trusted team and I value that." - Jamaya Edwards

What does it mean to you to be a leader of Groove Theory?

"To me it means that I always have an opportunity to grow into the person I want to be. It provides me space to make observations and make decisions with a trusted team and I value that." - Jamaya Edwards

As a leader of Groove Theory what is your goal for the ensemble?

"My goal is to create a space where one feels accepted, comfortable, and respected. I want us to come together and make music and positive memories." - Jamaya Edwards

Ellen Moyle

emoyle@gmu.edu

Treasurer

Ellen is the first and current treasurer of Groove Theory!

How would you describe your experience with Groove Theory?

"Groove theory is without a doubt my favorite ensemble I have had the privilege of being a part of. It truly is just the best thing to make amazing music with my favorite people and I’m just so grateful to be a part of it. A Cappella is such a uniquely challenging style of music and it is so much fun to have a space where we can lean into that challenge and grow as musicians." - Ellen Moyle

What does it mean to you to be a leader of Groove Theory?

"It is an honor to be a leader for this amazing group and I can’t wait to help it continue to expand and inspire others!!" - Ellen Moyle

As a leader what is your goal for the ensemble?

"I hope to continue making groove theory a place where all people can celebrate in their love of music." - Ellen Moyle

Ethan Pimentel

Epiment@gmu.edu

Officer

How would you describe your experience with Groove Theory?

"My experience at Groove Theory has been nothing short of fun. I enjoy all the time I spend with everyone within the group and consider all of them my friends. It's very welcoming, and It's very good at being communicative, where you can always express your concerns without being held accountable or feeling guilty. The songs are well arranged and fun to sing at rehearsals and gigs. I never know how far I would go with this group and the people in it, but I'm glad I was allowed to join it and become part of the executive board." - Ethan Pimentel

What does it mean to you to be a leader of Groove Theory?

"Being a leader of Groove Theory allows me to take my first major leadership role. I love to help out wherever I can and volunteer to take action immediately upon request from anyone within the group. Being a Groove Theory officer is not only an honor, but it is important to uphold that position and make sure that you are helping out with the group." - Ethan Pimentel

As a leader what is your goal for the ensemble?

"My goal as a Groove Theory leader is to make a community where everyone can feel safe and able to express themselves to the highest of their ability. I want everyone in the group to feel like a family where you always look forward to meeting, just like I do. I also want to work on making the group groove and dance more to the music; it's just a matter of being shy and having a small touch of stage fright." - Ethan Pimentel

Anthony Rodriguez

arodri94@GMU.edu

Anthony is the first and current librarian of Groove Theory!

How would you describe your experience with Groove Theory?

This is my second semester participating in groove theory. I’ve had a lot of fun and have improved as a singer and as a musician because of this group and I’m excited to continue! I sing as a tenor in this group but I also beatbox and help write music. I’ve had a lot of great experiences here, challenging myself as a musician and learning to work with other great people in this context. I’m very proud to be a part of this group and I look forward to where this semester and future semesters will take it.

What does it mean to you to be a leader of Groove Theory?

For me, being a leader means being able to contribute whatever I can to the group. This can be in the form of being punctual, helping out where help is needed and some more, and being available for anyone who might need it. My goal will always be to help others out and make their experience as fruitful as mine has been.

As a leader what is your goal for the ensemble?

I hope to help this group continue growing and collectively improving. Through active participation and a role in leadership, I hope to continue to be a part of this ensemble that has helped me in the way that it has. I hope to continue my development as a musician and enhance my skills as a singer. At the same time, I also want to help others accomplish similar goals.