While music has always been a part of my life and I’ve enjoyed being a part of a variety
of performances throughout my high school and collegiate career, there is truly nothing
like the glory that is York College’s Songfest. While it requires an inordinate amount
of work, cooperation, time, and organization, it is an event that makes York College
incredibly unique and creates an astonishing sense of community. After three years
of performing on the Songfest stage, I currently have the opportunity to serve as
Songfest Student Director. While my countless hours practicing Beyoncé in front of
my bathroom mirror will unfortunately go to waste this spring, I have loved working
on the production end of a show full of such talented hard working people, and I am
itching to tell the world about all the exciting things that happen in York, Nebraska
in the spring. So move over P.T. Barnum! Here are five reasons why Songfest is the
greatest show.
- Unexpected Friendships: Being friends with your teammates is great because you obviously have a lot in common,
but one of the best things about Songfest is that you get to spend time with people
who are completely different than you. Diversity is a beautiful thing, and if it weren’t
for Songfest, I would probably never go to a YC soccer game. Thankfully, athletes
who dedicate time and energy to Songfest have taught me that this institution is better
when we support each other!
-
Music Is Powerful: Even if you don’t consider yourself a musician, you cannot deny that there is something
powerful about a song that makes you feel like dancing. It is my personal belief that
all people have the capacity to be musical in one form or another, and Songfest is
a terrific way for people to experience performing who may otherwise not get a chance
to in their lifetime. The most reserved individuals who never picture themselves on
stage often are the most fun to watch! Not to mention they are pushed outside of their
comfort zone and are better because of it.
-
Improve Your Leadership Skills: While College is a magical time where you have yet to take on the real world, there
will come a day where you’ll have to prove to your future employer that you can take
charge and get stuff done! Being a Songfest Representative, or even helping with part
of the Songfest process is excellent practice. It covers a wide variety of skill sets
such as costuming, choreography, and working with people cooperatively.
-
Community: While it is inevitable for clubs to get a little competitive, there is an overwhelming
amount of love and support freely given to all participants during show week regardless
of club status. The first dress rehearsal is the equivalent of my Christmas morning,
because I am surrounded by people who are celebrating each other’s accomplishments.
- The Block Party: There is a new tradition that has made its way into Panther Days after the Friday Songfest show. The street in between Middlebrook and Kiplinger is blocked off so college students and Panther Days visitors alike can jam out, play yard games, connect with friends, unwind from all the stress of Songfest week, and most importantly, eat great food! In the past, we have had a food truck available, and if that doesn’t get you hyped about Songfest Week, I don’t know what will.
So whether you’re a high school student, parent, YC faculty or staff member, or YC student, I hope I have accurately expressed my passion for Songfest and all of the wonderful things it entails. I can’t wait to see you at future Songfest shows!
Attend Songfest 2018! Purchase tickets now at www.york.edu/songfest or high school students can register for Panther Days and see the show for free!