An all-male a cappella group from Exeter University has been crowned Britain’s most entertaining amateur choir.
Semi-Toned beat off competition from school choir The Bulmershe Ensemble and gospel group EAGA with a medley mash-up of Richard Smallwood’s Anthem Of Praise and Justin Timberlake’s Senorita.
The group members were handed the title by choirmaster Gareth Malone and a panel of experts.
They reached the final of BBC Two’s The Choir: Gareth’s Best In Britain after winning in sing-offs against a rival Exeter University a cappella group and a Bournemouth community choir.
The three finalists performed in front of a 2,000-strong audience in Central Hall Westminster in central London.
Malone said: “I’m so delighted for all the groups who applied and took part in this year’s series. It has been an amazing experience getting to know the groups.
“Although the other two finalists came on leaps and bounds during the contest, they were pipped at the post with a fantastically spirited performance.”
Semi-Toned member Ted Bartram said: “The lessons we learned whilst competing have genuinely improved us, both musically as a group and individually as performers. We hope to continue the good work that Gareth has instilled in us for many years to come.”
