Attempting to fill vacant positions, Downbeats, Northeastern’s co-ed acapella group, recently held auditions. Out of the 56 students that tried out only four were added as the new ‘baby beats.’

“Around late spring I transferred and was asking around about an acapella group,” said Nate Mackinnon, junior political science major.

Due to the Downbeats democratic system of running things, it has been easy for the new members to feel as if they are a key part of the group.

“As a new person it can be very intimidating,” said Mackinnon, “In Downbeats it’s very clear that everyone is a part of the group.”

The popularity of Downbeats has extended far past Northeastern’s campus. The often-requested acapella group has performed at the FleetCenter, Fanueil Hall, Emerson’s radio show, and at Tufts University.

Their favorite show to date was a performance for the wife of a Boston University professor who wanted to impress her on their wedding anniversary. Downbeats sang 20 minutes worth of songs in front of the professor’s home.

Matt Craig who wished to start something new on campus founded the Downbeats in spring of 2000.

“Well I first started in another group,” said Craig, a senior business major. “I have fun singing and I wanted to spread acapella.”

A key reason for their appeal is their varied music selection, which includes songs by Michelle Branch, Indigo Girls, Boyz II Men, Madonna, and Jewel.

“We want to expand our repertoire and uphold what Matt started,” said Gisela Shimke, current musical director and middler chemical engineering major. “We perform songs from the pop top 40s to songs from the 80s. Downbeats adds a little bit of diversity.”

Last year, for the first time, Downbeats competed in the International Championship of Collegiate Acappella. They placed third in the quarterfinals and won “Best Arrangement”. Craig Goldschmidt, Downbeats ‘human beat box’ won an award for vocal percussion.

“My friends and I used to fool around,” Goldschmidt said. “I would just practice beat boxing alone in my room.”

This year they hope to not only come out with a compact disc but also place first at ICCU.

They attribute their success to the three hour-long practice sessions twice a week and their strong bond.

“If it’s not fun the music isn’t going to be there,” said Rob Fries, senior computer engineering major.

Downbeats will hold a concert at 7:30 p.m. on November 22 at the Raytheon Amphitheater. The price of tickets has yet to be announced.