Converse Traditions

     One of the most enjoyable traditions I’ve experienced in the Petrie School of Music was the Halloween Recital. It was so entertaining to see students perform in ways that are not of traditional “Converse style.” The Halloween Recital provided students that may not be comfortable performing in a formal recital with an opportunity to play or sing in a fun, relaxed environment.

     What if there were more recitals such as this throughout the year? There could be a recital at Christmas, Valentine’s Day, and before the second semester ends. The Christmas Recital could feature well-known Christmas carols, and the performers could dress up in costumes or festive colors. Possibly the audience members could contribute to a foundation that helps families during Christmas time by paying a dollar to watch the recital. The Valentine’s Day Recital could feature love songs. These love songs could be operatic expressions of love in other languages or common love songs heard on the radio. If desired, the Valentine’s Day Recital could have another twist. Students could sing songs mocking Valentine’s Day. The recital at the end of the semester could be considered a “Thank Goodness Summer is Coming Recital.” This recital could include songs about frustrations from earlier in the year, songs about final exams or juries, or any song expressing the excitement for summer’s arrival.

     The addition of these recitals could add more community in the Petrie School of Music because it will allow the students to combine their talents to form a creative ensemble. These recitals could possibly help in relieving stress because it will be something the students can look forward to while they are overwhelmed. Adding more relaxed, festive recitals throughout the year would be a great addition to the Petrie School of Music tradition.