SAS Students Inspired by Princeton’s Oldest A Cappella Group

When Shanghai American School alum Matt Cline ‘23 left for Princeton University, it was never a question that he’d be back, but what he didn’t know was that he’d be bringing 17 of his closest classmates with him. Matt returned to our campuses with a bang – and more than a few snaps – last week with his university a capella group, the Princeton Nassoons. Founded in 1941, the Nassoons are Princeton’s oldest a capella group and these days they tour multiple times a year, performing at amazing venues all around the world. Recalling a visit the Yale a capella group “Redhot and Blue” made to SAS when he was in middle school, Matt was determined to bring the Nassoons to SAS to inspire the next generation of Eagles.  

And inspire they did! Wow-ing students and faculty alike with their artfully arranged tunes, meticulous attention to every detail of their performance, and undeniable talent. The Nassoons led workshops with high school choir, band and guitar students culminating in a combined performance with the Nassoons and SAS students.

"It was such a pleasure listening to the Nassoons sing and getting to know them as young people,” Dr. Brandon Miller, Pudong Campus Choir and Band Teacher, shared.  “The workshop was motivational and educational for our students. They led our choir through a series of exercises and small group rehearsals so that by the end of the session the SAS students were able to perform the song with the Nassoons. How lucky are we to have been able to watch them work and learn from them!"

The Nassoons impressed audiences not only with their musical talent, but with their dedication and deep commitment to their love for music. The Nassoons practice upwards of 15 hours a week, which on top of rigorous academic schedules, and a diverse collection of other pursuits, is no small feat. However, they emphasized the importance of pursuing your passions – activities that make you truly happy – and making time for fun while at university. SAS students left the Nassoons’ Q&A sessions with a deep appreciation for their hard work and passion for music, and with added perspective on how to approach the college experience.  

The visit was extra special due to Matt’s deep connection with SAS. "What made this workshop so valuable is that current students were inspired by an alum who demonstrates the legacy of Shanghai American School,” Karolina Pek, Puxi Campus High School Music Teacher, shared. “Matt’s deep connection to his roots at SAS and his eagerness to give back inspired our students and gave them a new perspective on music making.”

Matt wasn’t the only one feeling at home, Robert Mohan, President of the Nassoons, shared with a packed audience in the Hub Library that "everyone made us feel at home at SAS.” The Nassoons’ visit is just another example of how the SAS community continuously comes together to enrich all student education, and the circularity of the SAS experience.