Pierce College’s Music Department organized a musical showcase concert, and the students participated to highlight their singing skills on Saturday, May 29, in the Music Building 3400.
Music Professor Garineh Avakian spoke about why a musical showcase concert was important for the Pierce community.
“I think this is a must for someone in my position in the music department to show and build community and make sure that the students have that opportunity and experience,” Avakian said. “This is not even part of my curriculum, but I am going above and beyond for the students and the program. It also lets the Pierce community and their friends and family know that, hey, there’s talent here.”
Applied Music Instructor Ryan Espinosa described what he enjoyed the most from his students’ performances.
“I really enjoyed a few of the performances that I felt integrated, not only their voices but also just a little bit of everything, movement, any next-level things, like physical expression,” Espinosa said. “I don’t know if I have a favorite one. It’s like asking a parent what a favorite child is.”
Espinosa also expressed how he felt witnessing his students’ musical journey growth.
“I was very impressed because I know some of these students and have seen them from when they were still developing their voices to now, so I could hear the improvement,” Espinosa said.
Music major Lindsay Lopez sang “I Feel Pretty” from West Side Story.
“I hope they feel like the hope of love, the hope of being alive, that there is another day that they can feel better about themselves, even if it’s not today, even if it’s something, like your face, your dress, or even your smile,” Lopez said.
Music major Aviva Snir talked about what she enjoyed about being on stage.
“I like applause, and everyone likes attention a little bit,” Snir said. “I particularly enjoy it on stage. I’ve always loved music. I grew up around a lot of it. I always figured I would end up there.”
Avakian felt proud of her students for their dedication.
“The thing I am most proud of is that nobody truly crashed and burned,” Avakian said. “Many of these students had some anxiety issues throughout the semester, but everyone delivered, and they went above and beyond their limits. So I’m proud of them.”
Snir shared what she wanted the audience to take away from her performance.
“It’s not as scary as it seems on stage, and if you want to do something, go for it, especially in an environment like this one where everyone is so supportive,” Snir said.
