Sophomore Kristel Esther Phung anticipated more students to show up in the library, eyeing the clock as it reached 8 a.m. When close friends rushed in, she took a sigh of relief. Feeling more at ease, Phung took a deep breath and started her performance.
“At one point, I spilled my water in the middle of a song — luckily my friends were there to help clean up the mess,” Phung said.
Phung participated in Unplugged, a monthly event that gives student musicians a space to showcase their talents in the Academic Commons, occurring on Fridays based on demand. The idea for Unplugged sparked in the second semester of the 2023-2024 school year as Upper School librarian Suzanne Webb listened to students perform in Chapel. Inspired by the demonstration of talent, she created the program.
Webb reached out to junior Bianca Sieler after her chapel performance, recruiting Sieler to be the first Unplugged performer. During her performance, Sieler played eight songs — a mix of originals and covers.
Since Sieler’s first performance, a significant number of people have signed up for Unplugged.
To sign up for Unplugged, students filled out a Google Form linked to Dean Duncan’s infographic at the beginning of the first semester, indicating who would be performing and what type of performance they would have. After receiving a few sign-ups, Webb emailed each participant to schedule a date for their performance.
Webb originally planned for Unplugged to occur on the first Friday of every month, giving student musicians a space to regularly showcase their talents; however, due to scheduling conflicts, Unplugged has become more flexible, allowing students to reschedule performances if they feel unprepared or too busy.
“Unplugged is very relaxed and laid back,” Webb said. “We want you to be comfortable and for this to be an opportunity to hang out with your friends and sing.”
Phung performed six songs for Unplugged last January. Singing had always been a part of Phung’s life, and she viewed Unplugged as an opportunity to step out of her comfort zone.
Students can choose upbeat songs that excite the audience or, also, deep, meaningful songs that resonate with them. One performer chose a song that had a strong connection with their parents. Another played their guitar while singing to self-composed songs.
“Unplugged gives singers a platform to share something special or meaningful through their song choices,” Webb said.
Friends and teachers can show up to Unplugged performances to support and encourage the performer.
“I woke up early just to watch my friend’s Unplugged performance, and I was not disappointed! I already knew that my friend was a good singer, but seeing her confidence truly blew me away,” one audience member said.
Whether it’s signing up to perform or attending shows, Webb encourages all students to take part in Unplugged.
“I love to see the students who come to support their friends,” Webb said. “It’s just a great little community that’s been built.”
Theatre Manager Thomas Murphy performed at the final Unplugged, which took place on April 11. School artists and musicians look forward to another successful season.
