In this inspiring episode of the See. Serve. Connect. Podcast, Superintendent Dr. Jim Wipke welcomes the voices—and stories—of Viva Voce, Ladue Horton Watkins High School’s all-female a cappella group, along with their dedicated director, Leah Alrutz. This conversation celebrates student leadership, artistic excellence, and the power of connection through music.

Recently placing fourth at the highly competitive 2025 International Championship of High School A Cappella (ICHSA) Midwest Quarterfinal, Viva Voce continues to raise the bar. Dr. Wipke calls this interview the highlight of his week—and it’s easy to hear why.

Leah Alrutz, who teaches vocal music at the Ladue Fifth Grade Center and Ladue Middle School, shares the group’s origin story—born in 2016 from the enthusiasm of middle schoolers who fell in love with a cappella. Her passion for the art form, shaped by college performances and real-world inspiration from the competition behind “Pitch Perfect,” continues to guide Viva Voce’s journey.

Listeners will meet four of Viva Voce’s standout student leaders:

• Kate Sheley, current president and alto/bass
• Maya Mathew, incoming president and alto
• Emma Bangert, bass
• Kayla Wallace, bass

These talented musicians open up about what it means to be part of a group that’s as much a family as it is a performing ensemble. From navigating competition nerves to mentoring younger members, they share how their love for music—and each other—drives everything they do. The episode also dives into the excitement of Varsity Vocals’ “March Madness”-style brackets and the unique experience of being a treble a cappella group.

Don’t miss their Spring Concert on May 3 at 7:00 p.m. in the Black Box Theater at the Ladue Performing Arts Center. Tickets are only $5. All are welcome to attend!

The tradition of Viva Voce is more than music—it's mentorship, community, and legacy. At the end of their concert, alumnae are always welcome to return and join the group for their closing number, “Lean on Me” by Bill Withers—a reminder that once you're part of Viva Voce, you're always family.

Stay tuned through the end of the podcast to hear a special surprise treat, an original jingle by Viva Voce.