The Commercial Music Program partnered with Samford Student Activities and showcased their students in the songwriting class on Wednesday night at Harry’s Coffeehouse.
These talented students were given the opportunity to perform the songs that they had written throughout the semester. They were a representation of the effort that Samford and the music program put into their students.
After talking to a few audience members and performers, it was clear that the showcase meant a lot to both groups of individuals. They saw the value in allowing aspiring musicians to perform their own music in front of friendly faces.
Two of the performers described how, although this performance is a requirement for their class, they would choose to do it anyway, as it offers experience.
One of said performers is Amelia Kate Thompson, a sophomore Commercial Music Vocal Performance major.
“(It) is very confidence building because a lot of the times when I am in front of people, it is purely in a worship leadership setting, and it is very different,” said Thompson.
“AK” Thompson performed two songs: “Dragged” and “Fool’s Gold,” which she performed with sophomore Olivia Webber.
Another performer, Via Vicary, is a sophomore commercial music major and a member of LAKESHORE, Samford’s iconic School of the Arts band.
“I have gained so much confidence through my peers and through my professor, Steven Potaczek,” said Vicary.
She performed two pieces. Her first was “Unspooled,” a song which she cowrote with Josie Lackey, another commercial music major student.
Vicary also wrote “Your Kitchen,” a song that is a mixture of her previous musical theater training and her current commercial music interest.
“Being able to work with such talented fellow musicians that are your age is incredible,” Vicary.
She also talked about how access to all of the diverse classes allowed for exposure to all parts of the music industry.
Emily Wyndham, a sophomore nursing major, came to the performance to watch her friends.
For Wyndham, she enjoyed seeing the other side of campus and encountering all of the artistic individuals that are a part of it. She believed that it would be good for exposure and experience for all of the performers.
There was a great turnout for the event, with many coming to support their friends or simply to have a fun and cozy night in the intimate place that is Harry’s.
Each individual showcased their unique talents, whether by playing an instrument, singing or even rapping.
Due to the collaboration between the Commercial Music program and Samford Student Activities, there was even a sponsor for the event: Cookie Fix provided free cookies for all who attended.
