One of the greatest rivalries in college sports will give way to a friendly meeting through song as Edgecombe Community College presents an a capella performance on Friday, February 17.

The concert features two of the region’s premier collegiate male a capella ensembles, The Clef Hangers of UNC-Chapel Hill and The Pitchforks of Duke University.

The term “a capella” is a Latin phrase that means “in the style of the chapel.” The modern day use of the term in music means “voices without instrumental accompaniment.”

Both groups feature 12-16 singers who will perform close harmonies in a musical renewal of the famed Tobacco Road rivalry. The event takes place at 8 p.m. in Keihin Auditorium on the Tarboro campus and is the third of six concerts in the 2011-2012 season of the Edgecombe Performance Series.

In the fall of 1977, Barry Saunders entered UNC-Chapel Hill with a desire to sing close harmony. When opportunities within the music department proved scarce, Barry decided to form an all-male a capella group on his own.

In December of that year, the group -- then known as the Morrison Dorm Singers -- first performed at the old Morrison Dorm Coffeehouse. In 1978, the group settled on the name The Clef Hangers, adopted their now-traditional vests and bowties, and held their first official performance on a warm April afternoon in the Pit.

Since that time, the “Clefs” have entertained audiences around the world. The Clef Hangers have released 16 professionally-produced studio albums. The most recent non-holiday album, “Twist,” has been represented on three a capella compilation discs.

The Pitchforks were founded on the Duke University campus in 1979. At first, the group sang only barbershop and traditional music. Today, their repertoire includes a wider range, from the Beach Boys to Cold Play and Queen. The variety of songs from various musical genres that this group of college-aged men has mastered is impressive.

The ever-evolving ensemble has produced 17 albums and is considered among the top collegiate a capella groups in the country. They have performed the national anthem at Chicago Bulls and Duke basketball games, showcased before the Queen of Jordan, and even opened for Ben Folds in 2009. Their newest album, “All In,” was released in 2010.

Join Edgecombe Community College for a fun evening of a capella singing on Friday, February 17. In the spirit of the rivalry, audience members are encouraged to wear their favorite school’s team colors. No matter which side you pull for on the court or playing field, you’re in for great performances from both groups.

Tickets are $15 for the general public and $10 for students of all ages. Group and family discounts are available.

Tickets are available through the ECC Box Office or online at www.etix.com. For more information or to reserve your tickets by phone, please call Cultural Arts Director Eric Greene at (252) 823-5166, ext. 187.