The Bristol Suspensions (or simply Suspensions) is the University of Bristol A Cappella Society's mixed, auditioned, competitive group. Throughout their existence, the Bristol Suspensions have become a hit with audiences across the country, and are known for their unique arrangements, stunning vocals, and high-energy performances. The group sings a variety of music, from pop to jazz to techno – you name it, they’ve sung it!

 

As one of the longer-standing groups in the Society, the group has debuted over 2 decades ago, releasing multiple Albums over the years. Their successful Album, Red Hot, was released in 2021 and was nominated for 10 CARAs (Contemporary A Cappella Recording Awards), and won four, including ‘Best Mixed Voices Collegiate Album’.

Suspensions have also performed at various gigs and competitions, including LUKAS, Best of South West (BOSW) and Irish International A Cappella Festival and many more. The group has a glorious history, being crowned champions on multiple occasions: Voice Festival University in 2016, Irish International A Cappella Festival in 2019, and Solevoci International A Cappella Contest Champions in 2024. Being a regular contestant in the ICCAs, the group was UK champions in 2021 and received awards for Outstanding Arrangement, Choreography and Vocal Percussion. Following the win, we secured interviews on local TV stations as well as an appearance on ITV’s This Morning. In 2025, the group was awarded the best arrangement in the 2025 ICCAs with Recordplayer by AJR and Daisy the Great.

Suspensions also busk on the streets of Bristol every week, and perform in the Edinburgh Fringe Festival every August. The group has achieved massive success in their Fringe performances, having sold out in both 2022 and 2023.

As a competitive and auditioned group, Suspensions is always looking for strong singers of all voice parts, including beatboxers. If you're interested in joining, please follow @UoBAcapplla or @Bristolsuspensions for more information regarding their auditions. Please note that the ability to read music is not a requirement for joining the group (although recommended). So don't hesitate to sign up!

Please note that being a member of a competitive group is a big commitment – there are rehearsals, weekend trips, video shoots, and studio recordings. Members are expected to learn music outside of rehearsals. That being said, it is an incredibly fun and rewarding experience to have, and an amazing way to enhance your time at university.

Also, check out the group's Spotify here!