If you were on campus the night of March 1st, chances are you were at Rockfest, or maybe you simply felt the walls shaking from the bass guitar and energetic crowd. Between some amazing vocalists and very talented musicians, Rockfest was a huge success.

Yearlong music clubs, Rock Band and The Crimson Foxes, have been working tirelessly to perfect their songs. “Rock Band Club practices twice per week, [as often] as possible,” said Mrs. Brubaker, one of the club sponsors. “We missed so many practices due to late starts and snow, so I think we were really able to pull it together and [it] sounded great for the show!” 

Rockfest does more than push Grier musicians to practice, it pushes them to be their best selves. Specifically, the event helps people develop a confident stage presence. When asked about how he balances his nerves, Mr. Minnich said, “Nerves, Nah. I’ve played enough shows that it’s just fun now.” Mya Beisel, ‘27, a member of The Crimson Foxes, had a similar experience. “I just walked up and said, well, if I screw up no one’s going to throw a tomato!” said Beisel. 

Team work is such an important part of the show. Students spend long hours practicing together to perfect their work. “I think music is a little vulnerable, and so you have to have a certain level of comfort with the people you’re playing with,” said Sammi Cates, ‘28. “All of the people in the Rock Band club this year were really fun to hang out with, and some of them are people I would not regularly see otherwise, so it was nice to come together and make memories.” Rockfest gives students an outlet to meet new people who are very different but share one common interest—music.

Music is something that all Grier students are encouraged to try, whether you are new to performing or are a seasoned veteran. You can bring more music into your life by either auditioning for Crimson Foxes or joining Rock Band.