In particular, the Callbacks had a well-developed choreographical routine, said Sasha A. Haines-Stiles '02.

Haines-Stiles, who is also a Crimson editor, won "Best Arrangement" at the semifinal competition for her arrangement of Guster's "Two Points for Honesty."

"One of the things I've noticed is that a lot of the other groups don't have the kind of choreo we have in 'Like a Prayer.' It sets us apart," she said.

Rearranged by Smith last summer, "Like a Prayer" has become a signature piece for the Callbacks, members said.

Smith was awarded "Best Arrangement" at the quarterfinal competition for his work on the Madonna song.

Even members of rival groups acknowledged the Callbacks' skills.

In a message on the Callbacks' website, a competitor from the quarterfinals wrote about how impressed he was.

"After seeing y'all perform here in Durham on Sunday, Alabaster Blue (UNH's co-ed a cappella group) has a whole new standard we hold ourselves to," Fred Thornton wrote.

Ko said the group's win should be a source of pride for all students.

"Our success reflects well, not only on our group, but also on the entire Harvard a cappella community and Harvard University, itself," he said. "On April 30, when we are singing on stage at Lincoln Center, we will be representing the College."