For medical students, notes are usually taken, not sung. Instead of harmony, there is hematology. Gynecology over guitars. Dermatology replacing drums. But the UI Carver College of Medicine student choir Major Grooves is on a mission to add some music to the medical mix. 

“We spend so much time studying and worrying about school that it’s nice to do something productive that is relaxing at the same time,” said M2 Mark Hoegger, the group’s leader.

Many a cappella groups sport names with some kind of groan-worthy pun, and Major Grooves is no different. Titled in honor of the major groove of the DNA double helix, the group has been active on campus for years, performing for holiday and school events. The size of the membership fluctuates year-to-year, as members either graduate or become too busy to continue.

Hoegger had no previous formal musical instruction, joining Major Grooves to channel his lifelong love of singing. When the choir’s leadership position was vacant at the beginning of the year, he stepped up and took the tuneful reigns.

“I don’t have the strongest musical background,” Hoegger admits. “I think I’m good at working people’s talents in, though. I see my role as the guy who organizes and makes everything come together – and to keep it fun.”

What Hoegger lacks in knowledge of musical theory he makes up with computer savvy. The group rehearses its selections, usually consisting of Motown or classic rock songs, just once a week due to its members’ busy schedules.

Hoegger sidestepped this scheduling problem by creating an online system that allows members to learn songs from their laptops. Using the music software GarageBand, Hoegger records the vocal parts to a song on piano and posts it on the Major Grooves website. Members can then listen to the full song or isolate their own parts to practice with. This helps members maximize their productivity during the short weekly rehearsals. 

“I’m pretty handy with computers,” Hoegger said. “It’s interesting that we’re using all of this different technology to do something that’s artistic in nature.”

Virtual practice sessions aren’t the only advantage the group has. Everybody in the group brings a different kind of expertise that keeps things humming. For instance, M2 Devin Smith minored in music for his undergraduate work at the UI, experience that helps him keep the group’s rehearsals organized.

“I can anticipate where people might have trouble with rhythm, intonation or phrasing,” Smith said. “I can remember useful rehearsal strategies from when I encountered similar problems with other choirs.”

The group usually sings standard hits or holiday favorites, depending on the occasion. Although founded as a fun activity, the group can handle any emotional range, having sung at memorials and at the recent funeral for UI faculty member and Flocks learning community director Ben Pardini.

“I see major grooves as an outlet for the University to represent itself,” Hoegger said. “I know it’s not the best, because it’s musical and we are a medical community, but it’s something everyone can understand and enjoy. After all, music is the universal language.”

 

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