Sababa is UNC’s coolest and only Jewish a capella group. It was founded in 2006 by a group of students passionate about celebrating Jewish culture through music. A student-led group, Sababa is a part of NC Hillel and rehearses in the Hillel building. Sababa is an Arabic word for cool that has made its way into Hebrew slang.

Sababa has performed at various events both on and off campus. In addition to putting on an annual spring concert, Sababa has performed at many different NC Hillel events, including Shabbat services, a benefit dinner with Elie Wiesel, and the annual Jewish Muslim Arts Festival, as well as events sponsored by other cultural groups on campus. We have also performed in other areas of North Carolina, including at the Jewish Federation in Greensboro, and in other states, including at Temple Beth El in Richmond, Virginia and at a Jewish Festival in Columbia, South Carolina. Sababa was also featured in an article in the Charlotte Jewish News.

Sababa’s repertoire ranges from Jewish music to secular music. All of our songs are chosen and arranged by group members. Some songs we have performed include Ocean Avenue by Yellowcard, Someday by Rob Thomas, Kehilah Kedosha by Dan Nichols, At Yafah by Idan Yaniv, and Hallelujah by Leonard Cohen.

Sababa provides a great way fro students to express their love of singing and having fun. Sababa is always excited to welcome new members into the group, regardless of religion. Members are extremely busy with classes and other extracurricular activities, yet still make time for Sababa. Rehearsals offer a welcomed break from the hard work members put into schoolwork and other activities. After all, what could be more fun than singing with a great group of friends in the coolest a capella group on campus?

Contact Nick Montoni, montoni@live.unc.edu, if you have questions, want to audition, or want to have us perform at your event.