An expertly executed a cappella arrangement can uncover hidden layers in a familiar song, and BYU Vocal Point’s take on Josh Groban’s 2003 anthem “You Raise Me Up” does just that. By stripping away instrumental accompaniment, the group spotlights the song’s poignant lyrics and showcases the remarkable precision of their voices.
Founded in 1991 by students Dave Boyce and Bob Ahlander, BYU Vocal Point began as a nine‑member ensemble dedicated to exploring the possibilities of vocal harmony. Their sold‑out debut concert signaled a swift rise in campus popularity, and over the years they’ve cemented their reputation with a fifth‑place finish on NBC’s The Sing‑Off and, in December 2018, a record deal with Decca Gold, the classical imprint of Universal Music Group. As member Jason Bromley puts it, “We’re ordinary college students doing extraordinary things.”
Their “You Raise Me Up” music video unfolds against a breathtaking panorama of mountains and valleys. It opens with a single, crystalline voice that is soon joined by others, each harmony weaving into a lush, multilayered tapestry. Vocal percussion punctuates the arrangement, adding rhythmic drive without a single drum. As the singers move through the landscape, the serene setting becomes part of the performance, drawing viewers into an almost meditative state.
What sets this rendition apart is the seamless blending of voices: lead and background merge so flawlessly that it’s impossible to tell where one part ends and another begins. Rather than mimicking Groban’s original, Vocal Point introduces a fresh arrangement—culminating in an unexpected melodic twist near the end—and then invites a larger student choir to join for a climactic, spine‑tingling finale.
BYU Vocal Point’s version of “You Raise Me Up” reimagines a beloved classic with originality and heart. It’s a testament to the power of the human voice and a reminder that, sometimes, the most moving performances are those unadorned by instruments.
