Pentatonix rose to global fame through viral videos, innovative a cappella arrangements, and a sound that feels almost orchestral despite being voices alone. Yet behind the polished recordings and stadium tours are old Pentatonix members who laid the foundation during the group’s first chaotic years. Understanding the early roster helps explain how the group’s signature blend of pop, jazz, and R&B came together before later shifts in membership.
The Core Founding Trio and Early Collaborators
The heart of old Pentatonix was always the founding trio of Scott Hoying, Kirstin Maldonado, and Mitch Grassi. These three met at a Grammy Camp program years before the group formed and already sang with a blend of precision and playfulness that would become their trademark. When they joined up with bass vocalist Avi Kaplan and beatboxer Kevin Olusola, the classic pentatonically tuned lineup was complete, even if the name itself was still taking shape.
In those formative months, the group tested covers in small venues, living rooms, and anywhere with a decent microphone and internet connection. Old Pentatonix members like Avi brought rich, low harmonies while Mitch and Kirstin traded bright counterpoints, and Scott coordinated the intricate vocal percussion that made early tracks feel like full band productions. Kevin’s role as both beatboxer and musical director helped translate studio-level arrangements into a cappella realities that felt fresh but still accessible.
Lineup Shifts and the Exit of Avi Kaplan
As streaming numbers climbed and major record deals followed, the question of old Pentatonix members and their long term stability became impossible to ignore. Avi Kaplan, the deep voiced anchor of the group, decided to step away in 2017, citing a desire to pursue personal musical goals and a more normal life outside the relentless touring schedule. His departure marked the first major transition for the group and forced the remaining members to rethink vocal roles and stage dynamics.
Rather than replace Avi outright, the group reimagined their sound, redistributing his bass parts among existing voices and leaning more heavily on vocal arrangements that emphasized range and texture. This reshuffle highlighted the versatility of the remaining lineup and showed how deeply the earlier work of old Pentatonix members was woven into the group’s evolving identity.
The Kevin Olusola Transition and New Vocal Frontiers
After Avi’s exit, Kevin Olusola took on more leadership and production responsibilities, guiding the group through an increasingly experimental period. New members like Matt Sallee, who joined as bass vocalist, and Grace Kinstler, who contributed as a featured vocalist on later projects, expanded the palette while respecting the foundational sound established by old Pentatonix members. This era blended nostalgia with innovation, keeping familiar harmonies while embracing fresh textures.
Conclusion
Looking back at old Pentatonix members offers clarity about how a small group of ambitious musicians turned bedroom covers into a global phenomenon. The chemistry between Scott, Kirstin, Mitch, Avi, and Kevin created a blueprint that still influences the group’s music, even as new voices carry the torch forward. By honoring the past while welcoming change, Pentatonix continues to redefine what a cappella can be in the modern music landscape.
