Da Vinci's Notebook
| Company type | Musical group |
|---|---|
| Industry | Music |
| Founded | 1993 |
| Defunct | 2004 |
| Headquarters | Alexandria, Virginia , United States |
| Products | A cappella music albums and performances |
Da Vinci's Notebook (also known as DVN) was a humorous a cappella ensemble originating from Alexandria, Virginia, active between 1993 and 2004. They held the position of Artists-in-Residence at the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts, made appearances on Comedy Central and PBS, and served as the "house band" for Washington's WBIG-FM. Additionally, they were frequent contributors to the nationally syndicated Bob and Tom radio program.
Origins and initial phase (1993–1997)
Da Vinci's Notebook came together in 1993 when Bernie Muller-Thym, Greg "Storm" DiCostanzo, Paul Sabourin, and Richard Hsu formed the group following the disbandment of a six-member a cappella ensemble. Jay Jones briefly joined from 1993 to 1994. Their first public performance was at the 1994 Mid-Atlantic Harmony Sweepstakes, where they secured third place, eventually winning the competition in 1997.
In 1995, they independently released their debut EP titled Somebody Else's Greatest Hits, which consisted of cover versions of well-known tracks.
Bendy's Law (1997)
The group's inaugural full-length album, Bendy's Law, was launched in 1997. It featured guest contributions from Richard Greene and Joe Finetti of The Bobs, alongside members of the band Moxy Früvous.
The Life and Times of Mike Fanning (1999–2001)
Their sophomore album, The Life and Times of Mike Fanning, was released on December 1, 1999. Produced by Richard Greene—who also provided vocals and had participated in Bendy's Law—the record included guest performances from Ball in the House and artists affiliated with Eddie from Ohio. This album marked a departure with intermittent inclusion of instrumental backing tracks.
During this timeframe, the members committed to performing full-time, leaving behind professions in systems engineering, graphic design, accounting, and financial analysis. The group received substantial coverage from The Washington Post around this album’s launch.
"Enormous Penis", increased recognition, and Brontosaurus (2001–2002)
In 2001, Da Vinci's Notebook released their sole single, "Enormous Penis," which achieved widespread attention through airplay on the syndicated Bob and Tom radio show. This exposure sparked considerable demand for the track as well as renewed interest in fan favorites like "Another Irish Drinking Song" and "Face Like Billy Joel." "Enormous Penis" remains their most recognized song.
Their last album, Brontosaurus, arrived in 2002, including "Enormous Penis." Once again produced by Richard Greene, it featured guest artists such as Eddie Hartness, Robbie Schaefer from Eddie from Ohio, Valerie Vigoda of GrooveLily, and a cappella performer Sean Altman. The album garnered favorable reviews bolstered by their expanding audience due to radio popularity. Brontosaurus was Da Vinci's Notebook’s final full-length release before their dissolution in 2004.
Later period, breakup, and enduring influence (2002–present)
Over a decade, the group toured regionally and nationally, performing at notable East Coast folk festivals including the Falcon Ridge Folk Festival.
In 2004, Da Vinci's Notebook ended their touring schedule and regular live shows. Subsequently, members Sabourin and DiCostanzo formed the musical duo Paul and Storm.
Apart from their albums, Da Vinci's Notebook is credited with recording "The Ballad of The Sneak" for the Homestar Runner website; however, this piece was written and performed by Paul and Storm.
In 2013, their song "Another Irish Drinking Song" was featured in the film Despicable Me 2, adapted with lyrics sung in Minion language.
Members
- Paul Sabourin – tenor
- Richard Hsu – tenor, keyboard
- Greg "Storm" DiCostanzo – baritone
- Bernie Muller-Thym – bass vocalist, guitar
- Jay Jones – bass (1993–1994)
Discography
- Somebody Else's Greatest Hits (1995)
- Bendy's Law (1997)
- The Life and Times of Mike Fanning (1999)
- Brontosaurus (2002)
- Ballad of The Sneak (2003)
Awards and nominations
Mid-Atlantic Harmony Sweepstakes |- | 1994 | Da Vinci's Notebook | Mid-Atlantic Harmony Sweepstakes | |- | 1997 | Da Vinci's Notebook | Mid-Atlantic Harmony Sweepstakes | |}
Washington DC Area Music Awards |- | 2000 | Da Vinci's Notebook | Best Rock/Pop Group | |- | 2002 | Da Vinci's Notebook | Best A Cappella Group | |- | 2002 | Brontosaurus | Best A Cappella Recording | |}