The UAFS Music Department Rocks the House

The University of Arkansas - Fort Smith (UAFS) music and theater department made it known that not only are they musically gifted, but they also know how to have fun while showing off their talents. On April 24th, the UAFS Department of Music & Theater invited students, faculty, friends, and family to their Project Rock: Concert. Being one night only, the turnout of the crowd was filled with tons of supportive friends, family, and staff.

This concert allowed not only music students to share their talents but faculty members as well. The performances consisted of three groups: Toe Knife, The Imperfections, and Strange Orchestra. All three bands played rock tunes that also included giving pop songs some more attitude.

Toe Knife consisted of many talented musicians: Noah Hecox (vocals and trumpet), Evan Ellison (guitar), Danny McClellan (trumpet), Sarah Williams (trumpet), Toran Morton (piano), and Ryan Thompson (drums). David Tyson, a music professor, was also featured on bass. The group gave their versions of So What, From the Start, and All Blues during their time on stage.

Next up, it was time for the faculty to shine. The Imperfections included UAFS music staff, Loni Elliot (vocals), Andrew DeBeor (bass), Brant Blackard (drums), and again David Tyson (guitar and vocals). Students were able to see how talented the music department truly was. This group brought to life rock covers of Proud Mary, Heart of Glass, What I Like About You, and a crowd favorite, Smooth Criminal. 

The final group, Strange Orchestra, welcomed new students along with ones who had already performed before. The final setlist was performed by Sally Olsen (vocals and piano), Evan Ellison (vocals and guitar), Abigail Mullins (guitar), Adrian Mazariegos (bass), Tobin Lincovich (bass and vocals), and David Tyson (drums). Arrangements of the songs, Come Together, Surrender, Hit Me with Your Best Shot, Stayin' Alive, and Bang a Gong (Get in On) were performed.

As the rock ‘n roll night came to an end, the groups came together along with guest Daniel Zaleya, to perform the 80s hit, Walking on Sunshine. If there’s one thing the crowd learned, it’s that UAFS has many musically talented students and that the Breedlove auditorium will always allow them to shine.