On Apr. 6, the BMC Alumni Plaza will turn into a concert venue, showcasing the work and talents of this year's seniors in the Commercial Music Program. As their capstone project, each of the six seniors will present a set of music, with the first performances beginning at 1 p.m. 

As one of the most anticipated music events of the year, the Commercial Senior Projects allows each student to present immense musical talent and learn other valuable skills such as collaboration and ensemble leadership. 

Beyond learning and fine-tuning the individual performance, the Senior Projects allow each student to work with and lead an ensemble or band of featured musicians. For singer, vocalist and guitarist Maria Jose Insuasti, the Senior Projects have helped a creative dream come to life. “Putting together a whole band, brass quartet, and cello together was a dream I had for a long time. Seeing how it came true was really fulfilling” said Insuasti. 

Another senior who will be performing a Senior Project is vocalist and guitarist Ana Carvalho. For Carvalho, the process of putting the project together started early on in her time here at Concordia. “Because this project requires a lot of work and planning ahead, you are naturally taught to think about it from the moment you start college. Over the second half of my junior year, I started planning out what songs I'd like to perform and who I'd like to work with for my project. Through each step of this process, I was able to see how the skills I developed through college helped me accomplish these steps,” said Carvalho. 

While many seniors in the commercial music program focus their studies on guitar or vocals, senior music production student Aris Howsepian has incorporated several instruments into his project. “I will be playing bass guitar, singing, and rapping for my senior project. However, because I am studying music production, I have also recorded a number of elements that will be played via backing tracks, such as live violin, viola, guitar, bass and vocals.”

Howsepian added, “Because I am the only commercial music senior who is focusing on music production, the creative process is much different than other projects have been...Putting the digital music production tracks together with a live band adds a whole new dimension to each song, and I am so excited for everyone to hear how it fits together.” 

Senior Kaitlyn Bills, known by many students as Kaity B, is presenting a project that includes songs off of her own album. As she is entering a new and exciting season of releasing an album and designing her own merch, Bills has turned to her faith for comfort and strength.

“There are so many blessings and also hardships and the only way that I am getting through it is trusting in the Lord…I wouldn’t be here in this position if it wasn’t for God. A lot of my music is about God and how He loves us,” said Bills. 

For senior vocalist, songwriter and guitarist Darian Trujillo, the presence of an audience at these projects is incredibly thrilling and meaningful. “I’m very excited for the students and faculty who come to support our project day. We’ve all worked very hard to bring our ideas to life, and getting to share this moment with you and perform for you is truly the greatest payoff. Your presence and encouragement mean the world, and we can’t wait to share what we’ve created with you,” said Trujillo. 

The Music Department invites you to a joyous celebration and presentation of this year's seniors on Apr. 6 at 1 p.m. at the BMC Alumni Plaza. No ticket is necessary, and admission is free. 

Tags: music, community, Commercial Music

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