InPulse

In the fall of 2003, the four men of InPulse launched, what is now, one of the most celebrated debuts in recent a cappella history; leaping onto the national scene in the span of only a year. The pure, agile voices of Gabe Koxlien and Matt McDonald, which once shined as choral soloists with the world-renowned St. Olaf Choir, teamed up with bass/songwriter, Marcus Hanson, and vocal percussionist, Steve Howe to create a powerful sound that has now become synonymous with the term “Vocal Band.”

Breaking away from the traditional conventions of a cappella music has become a hallmark of the Minnesota-based group. InPulse has chosen to play an active part in the evolution of both a cappella and popular music, and as a progressive artistic ensemble, has made itself known mostly through its dynamic, original compositions; while performing new, inventive arrangements of covers which suit the distinctive InPulse flavor. Their performance showcases the versatility of the human voice, while the group’s truly artistic approach to their music leaves little confusion as to their mission: To take the a cappella “vocal band” sound into mainstream popular music and bring some legitimacy and credibility back to today’s suffering pop culture.

Now in their third year, InPulse has captivated audiences, young and old alike, garnering praise with every performance. InPulse was named Grand Champion of the 2004 Rocky Mountain Harmony Sweepstakes, in Denver, CO, where they also took home awards for Best Soloist, Matt McDonald and Best Original Song, “Obsession,” by Marcus Hanson. They have sold over 14,000 copies of their two recordings, debut album, “Alone and Above” and holiday album, “Shed a Little Light,” which have both been awarded nominations for Album of the Year by the Contemporary A Cappella Society of America. InPulse showcases its talents across the national, maintaining a rigorous touring schedule of concert halls, colleges and universities, fairs, festivals and private events. In addition, InPulse runs its own highly lauded Educational Outreach Program which takes them into schools across the country as guest artist/clinicians and advocates for vocal music and lifelong arts involvement.

Gabe Koxlien, tenor (Strum, Wisconsin) – Gabe’s pure and agile instrument produces a broad range of sounds and styles. While his versatility as a singer is hallmarked by his distinctive solos, he also has a remarkable ability to blend, almost transparently, with other vocalists. Although most highly regarded for his intuitive vocal abilities, Gabe also plays guitar, keyboards and saxophone and has performed in virtually every musical genre, from rock bands to early music ensembles. His prolific performing career has allowed him to sing under such notable conductors as Rene Clausen, Andre Thomas and Anton Armstrong.

Matt McDonald, bari-tenor (Sydney, Australia) - Matt brings his sparkling bari-tenor voice to InPulse, along with his innate gift for singing pop music. Having studied with renowned vocalists and musicians all over the world, his vocal talents are as effortless as they are rare, with his smooth three-octave vocal range producing prolific solo work. During his tenure at St. Olaf College, while completing his Bachelor of Music Degree in Vocal Performance, he twice won the National Association of Teachers of Singing (NATS) Solo Competition and was a tour soloist with the world-renowned St. Olaf Choir. His performance of Moses Hogan’s, “This Little Light of Mine” at the 2002 World Choral Symposium in Minneapolis, MN received a standing ovation from an audience of choral aficionados (including the late Mr. Hogan). Matt’s exceptional knowledge of vocal technique make him an invaluable asset to the InPulse Educational Outreach Program and guide him as Artistic Director of the ensemble.

Marcus Hanson, bass (Billings, Montana) – A 6’7” renaissance man, Marcus discovered his astonishing vocal instrument while receiving his Bachelor of Music Degree in Tuba Performance from St. Olaf College, where he also studied classical voice, Russian language, and formerly held the school’s shot put record. Marcus’ vocal instrument provides him a nearly four-octave range along with a bass register that is both agile and accurate. Having a comprehensive knowledge of both vocal and instrumental music, along with a background in musical theory, his talents are not only limited to his vocal abilities, as Marcus is also an award-winning songwriter and composer.

Steve Howe, vocal percussion (Saint Paul, Minnesota) – Steve began his musical life in church and school choirs along with participating in high school musicals. He then attended college at the University of Wisconsin – Eau Claire where he studied theatre and received a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Music. He was part of the collegiate vocal band Fifth Element during his time at Eau Claire, winning awards for arranging and vocal percussion at the International Championships of Co