By Silky Seal

A fundraiser also became a social event when students began joining Sigma Pi brothers in their musical and free verse performances.

Music is a universal language that everyone can relate to. It allows people from different backgrounds and experiences to come together. Free verse can also have a similar effect.

Both music and free verse have rhythm and beat. While music can have no words, free verse can be performed without an instrumental. However, both mediums of performed art can give feeling when the words are just right. Performing arts can capture people with a passion to produce something not just for themselves but for others to share in. Sigma Pi’s Open Mic night welcomed students to chime in and sing along.

There were several performances that particularly were audience favorites because of how engaging they were. Jeff Youmans, a brother of Sigma Pi, sang a set of 3 songs while playing guitar. His set included the songs “Let Her Go” by The Passengers an audience favorite as well as “Little Lion Man” by folk rock band Mumford & Sons and “Home” by singer and songwriter Phillip Phillips. Jeff Youmans’ passion for music was passed down to him from his family, especially by his father and grandfather. One of Jeff’s favorite artists is Mac DeMarco.

There a few other notable solo performances as well. Ryan Archer performed “Say It Ain’t So”, Weezer’s third and final single from their album released in 1994. There was also Skylar Brazdovic, a singer and talented guitarist, who sang a song influenced by a creepy night in what could be called a haunting house. The song was written with his band, it was a pretty good performance.

There was even an acapella performance from a brother of Sigma Pi, Joseph Greiner. He sang a lovely song called “Moondance” by Van Morrison. As sang, the audience snapped along.

The Open Mic also had a few duet performances, one of which featured Skylar and Mike McInerney, playing accompanying guitars. Their set list included “Slide” by The GooGoo Dolls, “Good Riddance (Time of Your Life)” by Green Day a favorite as well as “I’m Yours” by Jason Mraz, “Wonderwall” by Oasis a classic and “Freebird” by Lynard Skynyrd. Sigma Pi brother Andriy Vasiyschouk and Skylar sang “Hey There Delilah” by the Plain White T’s. This well-known song had everyone signing at the top of their lungs.

There was also Dennis and Corey, who both sang a song very appropriate for the weather, known as “Sweater Weather” by The Neighbourhood. This performance won them second place in the Open Mic!

Last but not least, the first performance of night, was done by Vector’s very own Gio Dinzey-Aninipot who performed free verse set that would invoke emotion in anyone. His free verse was strong and emotional and won the hearts of the judges. Gio won first place in Sigma Pi’s Open Mic with his words. Stay tuned for Sigma Pi’s next open mic for one of many more chances to sing and enjoy music!