If you love music, whether it’s writing, playing, or simply listening to it, then the upcoming Moorpark Music Association performance is for you.
The students in the association are preparing to perform their original compositions for the semester-end showcase on Friday, April 15 and Saturday, April 16 at 7:30 p.m. The hour-long show will be held in room M-109 in the Moorpark College Music Building.
According to Austin Scott, 19-year-old music major and president of the Moorpark Music Association, there are about 25 musicians and composers in the association along with 10 original pieces. Scott is expecting over 100 people to attend the performance filled with a wide variety of musical genres.
“We actually had to add another date because of the amazing turnout last semester,” said Scott. “The musical styles vary from composer to composer and some pieces can be easily put into genres like classical, country, or jazz, but some are more experimental and combine many different styles into a single piece.”
Some students, such as Joseph Alex Reyes, 20-year-old music major, feel that there is much more to performing than just the music itself.
“The biggest challenge is organizing rehearsals after the composition is done,” said Reyes. “Most of our performers are music majors and are in other groups and classes, so it sometimes is difficult to find the time where all of us can rehearse.”
While there are challenges, the benefit of these performances, according to Reyes, is that it allows the composers to perform their pieces.
“The club motivates me to write something in a timely fashion with the reward of a performance of my piece,” said Reyes. “It also brings up real-world situations, where you only have so many players that play certain instruments.”
Scott said the club benefits students by providing a hands-on learning experience.
“If you are a composer, you learn how to notate, conduct, and direct a piece,” said Scott. “If you are a musician, you learn how to work with composers, work with deadlines and of course, perform a piece in front of a big crowd.”
Another benefit of the club is that it builds your portfolio, according to Scott.
“If you are applying to colleges or for musical scholarships, they will need to see a representation of your past work,” said Scott. “By the end of the semester, every student will have a completed score and professional video of their piece to put on their application.”
Reyes said he is excited for the shows because they are not your normal concert and each musician and composer will get to share their talents and pieces with the campus and community.
“Please attend and support your local musicians and songwriters,” said Reyes. “Who knows? These students might be the next big name in film music, jazz scene, country world, or top 40 charts!”
For questions or information on the Moorpark Music Association performance, email [email protected].
