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Formation and Early Success

Pentatonix formed in 2011 when Scott Hoying, Kirstin Maldonado, and Mitch Grassi, high school friends, recruited bass Avi Kaplan and beatboxer Kevin Olusola to compete on NBC's 'The Sing-Off.' Their unique blend of five voices (inspired by the pentatonic scale) won the competition's third season, launching their career. The group quickly gained fame through YouTube, with viral covers like 'Radioactive' and 'Daft Punk.'

Current Members of Pentatonix

As of 2023, Pentatonix consists of three original members:

- Scott Hoying (Baritone)

- Mitch Grassi (Tenor/Countertenor)

- Kirstin Maldonado (Mezzo-Soprano)

Joined by:

- Kevin Olusola (Vocal Percussion/Beatboxer) - Joined shortly after formation in 2011.

- Matt Sallee (Bass) - Replaced Avi Kaplan in 2017.

Past Members and Who Left

Avi Kaplan (Original Bass, 2011-2017): Avi left Pentatonix in 2017 citing the demanding touring schedule and desire for a quieter life close to nature. His powerful bass vocals were a signature element during the group's early rise. He remains active in music solo and with his folk group, Avriel & the Sequoias.

The Art of Pentatonix Arrangements

Pentatonix's signature sound relies on complex vocal arrangements. While all members contribute, Scott Hoying and Kevin Olusola are the primary arrangers. Hoying often creates the harmonic structure and vocal parts, while Olusola integrates intricate beatboxing rhythms. Their process involves deconstructing songs and rebuilding them using only their voices to replicate instruments and effects.

Achievements and Legacy

Pentatonix has won three Grammy Awards, sold over 10 million albums worldwide, and amassed billions of streams/views. They are credited with revitalizing mainstream interest in a cappella music, particularly through their annual chart-topping Christmas albums and innovative original works like 'The Lucky Ones.'

• Pentatonix faced significant pressure after 'The Sing-Off' win, initially funding their first tours and videos through Kickstarter campaigns before securing a major record deal.
• Kevin Olusola is also an accomplished cellist and pioneered 'celloboxing' – playing the cello and beatboxing simultaneously, a skill he showcased on 'The Sing-Off'.
• Matt Sallee, the current bass, was selected after a rigorous audition process involving hundreds of singers. He previously performed with the professional a cappella group VoicePlay.