WKNH and Alpha Sigma Phi Fraternity joined forces to give students a relaxing night away from their studies. The groups co-sponsored an open mic night Friday, Feb. 24 in the Night Owl Café (NOC).
Luke Stergiou / Senior Photographer
WKNH’s Promotions Coordinator, Patrick Regan, explained the celebratory reason the radio station chose to sponsor the event. “WKNH wants to provide opportunities on campus for those who celebrate all things radio! That includes music, poetry and standup. It’s a great chance for people to talk and get to know others who have the same interests as them, while also giving them a platform to perform.”
KSC junior Collin Coviello discussed how open mic nights help connect creators alike, especially for students new to campus.
“I transferred to Keene State this semester and it’s great that there are spots for musicians to meet and get to connect with each other. To be around other music fans on campus and be able to share the stage with such cool creators; it made for a good night,”Coviello said.
Alpha Sigma brother and KSC senior, Kyle Smith, was working the event and discussed getting involved with WKNH.
Luke Stergiou / Senior Photographer
“As an organization, we are always trying to branch out and work with other organizations arounds campus. A lot of people probably think that we only want to interact with other Greek life, but the reality is that were interested in being active on campus in as many ways and with as many people as possible. A few of our brothers are musicians in local bands, so we took that opportunity to use that connection and collaborate on this event.”
Chris Sullivan, a WKNH DJ and KSC senior, said co-hosting events is an easy way to get visibility for both organizations.
“Who doesn’t love music? Everyone loves music. It’s a common ground that most people have and there is an immense respect for performing in this area. So due to that commonality more people are likely to get involved with these shows, furthering the reach of people that know about us (Alpha Sig and WKNH).”
Luke Stergiou / Senior Photographer
Not only is it publicity for groups on campus, but for the artists themselves. Smith says “I think having organized music-themed events gives local musicians the opportunity to play for a more diverse crowd. It’s important to stimulate the local music culture because a lot of people have musical abilities but have not formed bands or explored their interests, so having the opportunity to get on stage lets them get a feel for everything. I think more events equals more publicity for the musician, which equals more ties to each other in the community.”
Alpha Sigma Phi and WKNH will join forces again Mar. 24 for another open mic night from 7-8 p.m. in the NOC.
Kassidy Curr can be contacted at kcurr@kscequinox.com
