On Friday, April 8, the band LAKESHORE played two concerts at 6 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. in the Christenberry Planetarium.
LAKESHORE consists of 14 students who are under the direction of Assistant Professor of Commercial Music, Project Manager Steven Potaczek.
At the concert, the band performed songs by Amy Winehouse, Pink Floyd, and other popular artists. The concert also featured a light show.
Vocalist Taylor Wilson shared what she hoped that the audience got out of the performance.
“As a performer, it’s my job to give the audience an escape. As soon as they walk in the door they leave everything behind and come have fun with us even if it’s just for an hour,” Wilson said. “Music’s goal, especially live music, is bringing a bunch of people together to enjoy something they all love.”
Potaczek also discussed what led him to start the band.
“Honestly, because at the time, Samford didn’t really have anything like this to offer students,” he said. “Our university has an incredible history of providing more traditional ensembles but had not delved much into the modern popular music genre. And, LAKESHORE empowers students to not only study the music of their natural vernacular but also defers a large role to them in selecting their repertoire and creating original content.
He went on to explain the role of music in bridging generational divides.
“I believe Samford has the opportunity to not only validate students’ own musical identities here but also encourage higher levels of thinking, Potaczek continued, “Sometimes in education, we tend to use elaborated codes derived from Western European culture, whereas many modern students use vernacular codes. Therefore, students and teachers are in danger of standing on opposite sides of a musical and linguistic chasm with few holding the key to unlock the other’s code. I hope that LAKESHORE is a part of bridging that gap.”
When asked if the band had any more concerts lined up for the rest of the semester, Wilson said they may have another one in the works before school gets out.
Additionally, Wilson shared the positive contribution that the band has made to her life.
“This band is special. I have made friends in this band that I know will be in my life forever,” she said, “I’m honored to have the privilege of sharing a stage with them. They’re all amazing and I wouldn’t be who I am today without them.”
To stay updated on the band’s performances, follow them on Instagram at @lakeshoresu. Students interested in being a part of the band can fill out an audition request form.
Staff Writer
