Moorpark College Music Technology Program students returned to the Performing Arts Center Studio Theater spotlight earlier this month for the “Come Together” music showcase on April 14 and April 15.

The night celebrated independent and collaborative talent from Ventura County with a live set consisting of rock bands, electronic music and jazz combos.

Moorpark College Department Chair of Performing Arts and Director of “Come Together” Nathan Bowen spoke about the event’s initial emergence following the pandemic.

“We started calling it “Come Together” after COVID when we were all able to come back on campus,” Bowen said. “I think that everyone was tired of performing in their bedroom and wanted to do something physically in one space. It’s been really fun for me to get this event going, and it’s been fun working with these students.”

Bowen pointed out that unlike traditional instrumental music events held at Moorpark College, “Come Together” gives students the freedom to shift genres and experiment with a variety of instruments in front of an audience.

“For this show, you can pick your own songs; we need to make sure they are licensed and we have the ability to do a cover, but do your original songs,” Bowen said. “Bring whatever you want to the table, and we will help you figure it out.”

The program featured a wide assortment of songs, varying from familiar hits like Billie Eilish’s “Happier Than Ever” to rock favorites including “Dirty Work” by Steely Dan.

Dylan Embring, a first-year music student at Moorpark College, performed in an array of songs, including “Got a Match?” by Chick Corea Elektric Band. Embring reflected on the process of selecting this upbeat number for the showcase.

“I decided to perform this song because I wanted a challenge for my repertoire, and I thought my partners for “Come Together,” Jake Lebron, James McDonough and David Norris, would have a blast with it too,” Embring said. “I really enjoy the chemistry between the members of the ensemble for that song; we bounce ideas off each other, and I feel that I’ve learned a lot from them and their approaches to the song.”

As a member of a local rock band Liquid Indigo, Embring’s decision to join the showcase stemmed from their desire to further connect with music students.

“I participated in “Come Together” because I wanted to meet new people who are also interested in performing music,” Embring explained. “I’ve ended up finding a great community of people who are not only talented and creative, but also some of the most welcoming and kind people I’ve come across.”

“Come Together” also showcased original songs written by Moorpark College students.

Audrey Lisette, a second-year music student, debuted an unreleased song titled “Never Ending Change” for the audience. Lisette described the deeper meaning behind the song’s profound lyrics.

“Every single person can relate to how difficult it is to change, whether that be a loss of a loved one, a change in environment and so on,” Lisette said. “Everyone copes differently, and this song is meant to help others feel what they may not be able to feel or express themselves in times of change.”

Lissette is also a member of UltraViolet, a rock band fully composed of Moorpark College students. As a songwriter, Lissette further explained the benefits of rehearsing original work with supportive colleagues in the program.

“Playing with talented musicians and combining ideas of their own unique interpretations adds more creativity and color to my songs,” Lisette said. “I would encourage anyone interested in pursuing music to follow their heart and try it out. You will always continue to get better as long as you’re consistent.”

The night concluded with a stellar full-cast performance of “Come Together” by The Beatles. The collaboration not only highlighted the group’s comprehensive sound but also represented consistent rehearsal efforts from all members of the ensemble.

The college’s music department plans to host “Come Together” again in the fall and encourages students to participate regardless of their personal instrumental style.

“Right now, our show features more of a rock-heavy presence, but I want to bring back more DJ’s and polystylistic performers that play with more technology,” Bowen said. The beauty of “Come Together” is that you can perform any style you want to do, so I’m hoping that students know that whatever style you want to perform, we’re up for it.”

Moorpark College’s student musicians are set to reunite for their final performance of the year at “A Dynamic Evening of Music” on May 6. Students interested in learning more about the college’s Music Technology program and its upcoming events can visit their website.