In 1998, several women recognized the need for a female music ministry on campus, and formed a small Christian women’s ensemble called Agape, a word of Greek origin meaning God’s unconditional love. The group was recognized as a formal student organization by Wake Forest and granted a constitution.
            In 1999, the name of the group was changed to One Accord, a name inspired by the scriptural underpinning that guided the singers. Romans 15:5-6 says: “Now may God who gives perseverance and encouragement grant you to be of the same mind with one another according to Christ Jesus, so that with one accord you may with one voice glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ” (NAS). Under the name One Accord, the group produced two CDs: Falling For You (2002) and Something So Good (2004).
            In 2005, the group was required to rename itself.  The women agreed on the name Minor Variation to reflect that the new name was a only minor change, rather than any variation in commitment or purpose. Along with the name change, the group adopted a new verse. Romans 12:2(a) says: “Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind” (NIV). 
            Under the new name in 2006, the ensemble recorded its third CD entitled Someone Say Grace. In addition to a new name, verse, and CD, the group also instituted a new tradition of making an annual musical tour during the week after exams. The maiden tour was to Baltimore and Washington, D.C., where the women performed at an Oriole’s baseball game, a special needs school, at several church services, and for tourists at national monuments.  The following year, Minor Variation toured Raleigh and Atlanta and toured New Jersey, Philadelphia and New York City in 2008.
            At the begining of this summer, Minor Variation will be touring Lenoir and Asheville, North Carolina.