LIMA — Ohio State Lima’s a cappella group, Carmony, won the 2017 International Championship of Collegiate A Cappella (ICCA) quarterfinal competition, Feb. 11, in Bowling Green High School.

Mitchell Craft, of New Bremen, performs with the ensemble.

The choir had a 34-point lead over the second-place group.

“ICCAs brings together an astonishing group of young musicians — those who are dedicated to the art of making music,” said Dr. Margaret Young, associate professor of music. “Our students shone at the quarterfinals. They were polished, expressive and professional. Their musical abilities and theatrical performance won the judges and the crowd over.”

Carmony now moves on to the semifinal competition in Buffalo, New York, March 25. According to the ICAA website, the competition includes 450 groups competing in nine regions in the U.S. and Europe.

“Getting ready for competition is an incredible time commitment, but one that they make without complaint,” Young said. “To say that I’m proud of the work they’ve done is an understatement. They are a tremendous asset to our music department and the Ohio State University.”

Carmony is led by Dr. Matthew Young, director of choral programs at Ohio State Lima.