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The six members of Eclipse originally met while performing
in a public relations /ambassador-oriented group that was part of the
department of Programs and Entertainment at Utah State University. They
began by arranging their own vocal covers of popular songs and performing
them on campus and in the Logan area. Increasing public interest and performance
opportunities led to the
recording of their first album, "Once," which was released in
April 2001.
Following the release, the band's main focus shifted to gaining exposure.
They auditioned for, and were accepted to compete in, the Northwest Regional
Harmony Sweepstakes Competition. They took first place and were featured
at the National Competition in May 2001 with the 8 other Regional
winners from around the nation.
In Utah, concerts and contacts continued and relationships were developed
as Eclipse began performing with local artists such as Colors, John
Schmidt, Peter Breinholt, and Kurt Bestor.
In September 2001, Eclipse was asked by Kenny Ortega, Olympic Ceremonies
Director, to perform a featured number in the Opening Ceremonies for the
2002 Olympic Winter Games. This led to other opportunities, including
a featured spot in the Closing Ceremonies and a series of appearances
at the Medals Plaza opening for such acts as Brooks & Dunn, Nelly
Furtado, and Train.
Shortly after the Olympics, Eclipse was asked to be a featured guest along
with Larry King and Toby Keith at the "Stadium of Fire," the
4th of July celebration at BYU's Cougar Stadium.
Eclipse released their second album, "Think Twice," in October
2002. They also became the 2002 winners of the Rocky Mountain Regional
Harmony Sweepstakes.
In 2003, Eclipse was named "Best Vocal Group" in Utah's Best
of State awards and "Group Recording Artist of the Year" in
the Faith Centered Music Association's Pearl Awards. They released their
third album, a Christmas CD called "Three Kings" in October
2003.
In 2004, Eclipse received three more Pearl Awards, including “ Holiday Album of the Year,” and were the runners-up for “Best Holiday Album” in the Contemporary A Cappella Recording Awards. They also received two Just Plain Folks Music Awards (the world's largest music awards program, honoring independent musicians in over 85 countries).
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