The purpose of this comparative case study was to examine the motivation for participation in traditional and non-traditional vocal ensembles by students who are not pursuing a career in music and the perceived benefits of this participation. Participants were selected from a traditional mixed choral ensemble and a student-run a cappella ensemble. Data consisted of interviews, written reflections, and field observations. Both groups of participants indicated musical outcomes, emotional release, and achieving school/life balance as benefits of vocal ensemble participation. The personal motivations for the members of the different groups varied, with the traditional mixed choral ensemble students focused more on individual musical development and gaining technique, whereas the a cappella students reported group interaction and singing with others as the main factors for participation.