Vocal Rush
From 2011-2020, elias’ life work centered around a group of high school students with big hearts, brave voices and a desire to make the world a better place. Founded by then Lisa Forkish, Vocal Rush is an a cappella group that has won five national championships and inspired countless humans across the globe with their music and message.
In June of 2020, elias (Lisa) passed the baton to Vocal Rush founding member, Sarah Vela.
“In a world where evidence was compelling to policy makers, Oakland School For The Arts’ Vocal Rush would be Exhibit A, illustrating that arts in education produces well-rounded, focused, intelligent, well-spoken and happy students.”
“To watch OSA Vocal Rush in action is to watch young people articulate themselves with a sense of self-identity and personal agency that even the most enlightened adults would find awe-inspiring.”
“Vocal Rush’s rise in the a cappella world has been steered by Forkish, who previously worked as the music director for the University of Oregon’s award-winning a cappella group Divisi.”
