(Photo Credit: Anna Kezar)
By Cora Masar
Ten students, 10 new songs.
On Tuesday, April 23, 10 students performed 10 songs, most of them original, at New Song Chapel in the Manahan Orthopaedic Capital Center.
To start off, Professor Wally Brath, the assistant professor of worship arts, read from Psalm 96.
“Sing unto the Lord a new song.”
He then told the audience that students would be performing original works of music.
The first group of students to take the stage was a band called Six Feet Deep. The lead singer, Caleb Rumschlag, announced that they would perform a song called “Nightmares.” The group then launched into their song, filled with a rocking beat, electro influences and passionate singing that had the crowd clapping to the beat.
Isaiah Sgiers sang next. He humbly introduced his song, “Give It Up,” and credited the women of the worship department and Rumschlag for helping him craft the lyrics. He shared that the song was about surrendering to God.
“It’s something that we have to do every day; it’s not just one and done.”
The music started, and to everyone’s delight, Sgiers began a fast-paced hip-hop song. His rapping skills were flawless, and his lyrics were deeply and carefully crafted. Students cheered him on, enjoying not only the music but also the relatable struggle behind it.
After this, Gwyneth Boike performed. Her song, titled “Hebrews 7: The High,” was a beautifully crafted song full of worship to the Lord. Her rich and well-supported voice brought the poetic praises perfectly to life.
Next, Riley Ash sang and accompanied herself on guitar. Her song, “Believe,” was a prayer for unbelievers. Her airy and lilting voice carried the song straight to the audience’s hearts.
“I hope you saw Jesus in me even though you don’t quite believe,” Ash sang.
Elenora Bergstrand then sang a song titled “It Will Work Out.” The song was inspired by her mother, who comforted her during a difficult time of transition in her life. Her gentle and lullaby-like tone filled the room as she encouraged students facing unknowns. Her lyrics were infused with scripture.
Following this, Jewelia Austin shared a song that came from a battle with anxiety in her life. This song, called “Safe With You,” reminded students that they are held by God even in their struggles. Her heartfelt voice rang steady and clear in this ballad-like song for anxious hearts.
Hudson Felsman then shared his song “Faithful Love.” This song, derived from Isaiah 6, was a song of humble adoration for the Lord. Felsman’s kind and strong voice carried a message of pure worship to the audience.
Next, Donovan Connelly sang a song called “Son of Reconciliation.” The song had gorgeous harmonies and a message applicable to all. The chorus repeated the line, “Oh Prince of Peace, I lay down every stone.”
The service concluded with a new version of an old hymn, arranged by Lily Williams. She took “There is a Fountain” and combined it with a joyful bluegrass sound full of harmonica, guitar and even a mandolin played by her father. Her catchy and moving vocals brought an old song to a modern audience in a delightful way.
The Sounding Board 