Music Majors to Play off Anxiety at Practice Recital

Suffolk students in the music program were able to get an outlet to shake off their nerves and practice performing in front of an audience at the Informal Recital held on Feb. 15. Ten students performed in front of their peers and showcased their varying talents.

An informal recital was held for students in room 20 of the Southampton Building for students involved in the music program on campus as a way to practice performing in front of an audience. Students were able to choose the music and instruments they wished to perform, providing insight into what other talents students had aside from what they were pursuing as for their major.

As students filed into the room and began to prepare their instruments and sheet music, the feeling of anticipation was in the air. Friends were encouraging each other about their respective performances and expressing their excitement. 

“As a community, we are all very supportive of one another,” said Jake Krasnoff, 19, a piano major from Farmingville.

The performers lined up in the order they sign up to perform in. From playing the piano to singing to performing a drum solo, the students were encouraged by cheering and applause from the audience.

“It gives the students the ability to practice performing. It helps them work through their anxiety,” said Alice Cavanaugh, the music professor who had coordinated this event. She said the Informal Recital has been going on for 15 years. 

Having an event such as this provides students with a safe environment to practice performing in front of their peers without any fear of embarrassment because of its ‘informal’ setting. 

“It reveals some hidden talents students may have,” Cavanaugh said.  

There will be two other informal recitals held on March 15 from 11 a.m. to 12:15 p.m. and April 5 from 11 a.m. to 12:15 p.m. in the Southampton Building in Room 20.