Published September 30, 2024
BY SAVANNA RADOWICZ
A long-standing feature on the Carmel High School campus, the Singer-Songwriters’ Club will hold its first show Nov. 1, continuing the legacy of cultivating young artists’ abilities and sharing their talents with the community.
This year, the guild says they will focus on fostering a love for songwriting by incorporating workshops and activities aimed at inspiring young musicians and curing the infamous writer’s block. In a recent meeting, for instance, the group created song lyrics based on a rhyming word from their peers, resulting in a collection of surprisingly seamless ballads.
“I want everyone to explore their own love for performing and their passion for music, and to learn from each other and be able to collaborate,” says senior vice president Lillian Mendez, a longtime cello player and singer.
Singer-Songwriters’ vice president Lillian Mendez performs at last year’s band show alongside the club’s numerous talented vocalists and instrumentalists. (courtesy of LILLIAN MENDEZ)
The first opportunity for this year’s members to show off their talents will be at the first Singer-Songwriter Show in the CHS cafeteria Nov. 1 at 7 p.m. The performance will be open to anyone wanting to support the rising maestros.
Returning members were also invited to play at the This Club Saves Lives event at MEarth on Sept. 27.
For many, music is a profound experience and source of connection. The Singer-Songwriters’ Club is no exception.
“Music just does it,” says Victoria Decklemann, a faculty adviser and former club member. “It just does it…. When [music] has its effect on you, whether you’re playing it or just listening to it, it’s just another level of humanity, of spirituality.”
The club’s members prioritizes connection, both with one another and through the melodic art that they create. Amid a new school year and with the addition of new members, creating support and community is increasingly important.
Senior president Sebastian Danielson’s busy schedule makes his commitment to music obvious, sparing no moment when it comes to running the club, planning for shows and meetings and cultivating his own talent. Between him and Mendez, it looks like the guild is in good hands.
In the glow of Carmel High’s across-the-board success at the statewide youth competition Heritage Music Festival last year, Danielson has high hopes for the Singer-Songwriters’ Club.
“Last year was incredible,” says the spirited songsmith. “I hope that we can match last year, and I know that we can with the incredible musicians we have.”
