Alum returns to perform with Krokodiloes
In late January, the Upper School was treated to a performance by the Krokodiloes, the oldest all-male a cappella group at Harvard University. The audience erupted in applause when alum Eton S. ’19 jogged onstage. Eton, who is a freshman tenor at Harvard, received a similar round of applause each time he stepped forward to sing a solo. The group sang a 30-minute set, even including Head of School Diane R. in one of their songs.
The 12-person group visited San Francisco during their winter tour, which included destinations like New York City and Cancun.
“Performing at Nueva was honestly an out-of-body experience,” Eton said.
While at Nueva, Eton performed in multiple musicals and was part of the a cappella club Soundwaves.
“I would not be with the Krokodiloes without the skills I developed at Nueva,” he said.
According to Eton, joining the Krokodiloes early in his college career gave him a “close-knit community” of people with whom he shared a passion for music. It also helped him settle in to life as a college student.
“Following a routine in college can sometimes be difficult, but with the Kroks’ rehearsal schedule, following a routine was quite easy,” Eton said.
His parents, sister, and grandparents also
When I left, I often thought about whether Harvard was going to be my new home and Nueva would be left in nostalgia, but through performing, it felt like I had never left.
came to watch him perform.
“They were really impressed and happy,” said Emy Y. ’22, Eton’s cousin, who attended with her parents.
Before their performance, the Krokodiloes held a workshop attended by 22 upper school students and five students from the middle school.
“[The Krokodiloes] had so much spirit and were very enthusiastic when they sang,” said Aanika G. ’22, who attended the workshop. “They also helped us understand the college a cappella process and how to apply.”
Cathy D., who teaches vocal music at Nueva and attended the workshop, said the group led everyone through vocal warmups and taught them “Runaround Sue,” one of the songs from their set list.
“[The Krokodiloes] made sure to articulate the difference between competitive a cappella and their mission, which is to connect through music,” Cathy said.
Written by Anisha K.
Staff Writer
