The spotlight shone on California Baptist University’s Commercial Music division as bands prepared to perform at Fall Fest on Oct. 4 at 7 p.m.
Students enjoyed performances from CBU bands “Clubhouse” and “Deja Vu.” The bands began their sets as students took their seats, and others passing by Lancer Plaza paused to watch the show.
Colorful lights illuminated the stage, and music filled the evening air as the bands performed covers of songs like “Beggin” and “Disturbia” by Rihanna. They also embraced the festive spirit with Halloween-themed tunes such as “Monster Mash” and “Thriller” by Michael Jackson.
Another band entertained the crowd with pop hits like “Espresso” by Sabrina Carpenter and “Style” by Taylor Swift. The night ended with the newest hit from Lady Gaga and Bruno Mars, “Die With a Smile,” where the band showcased their musical talents with impressive range.
Belsy Montufar, senior commercial performance major, reflected on her favorite part of the night and the challenges her band faced.
“My favorite part of the performance was probably the medley with ‘Monster Mash,’ ‘Thriller,’ all those fun songs,” Montufar said. “We had to come up with it last minute, so it was nice to see it all come together and turn out well.”
Despite the challenges, the band delivered an engaging performance that had students and parents dancing along. The colorful spotlights danced across the stage as the band performed with energy and enthusiasm.
Part of the Commercial Performance program’s focus is bringing together different musicians within the division. Montufar expressed her excitement about combining talents.
“It was a lot, but it was fun to meet different musicians and blend what we know to create one cohesive sound,” she said.
The collaboration of talented musicians gave CBU students at Lancer Plaza an evening of musical fun, complete with strong vocals and skilled instrumental performances.
Zhaquana Woodberry, sophomore songwriting major, attended the show and emphasized the importance of supporting her peers.
“As a songwriter, I think it’s very important to share and support,” Woodberry said.
New to the program, Woodberry attended the performances to learn from her fellow musicians.
“I learned you can give a great professional show locally and still have fun,” she said. “I get stuck in my inexperience and trying to get everything perfect, but that takes away from the fun.”
The bands’ enjoyment on stage showed their classmates that it’s possible to put on a great show while having fun.
Professor Emily Benford, associate director of commercial music in the School of Performing Arts, explained that the event not only entertained but also provided valuable learning experiences for the students.
“What the audience sees is just the performance, but these students have been rehearsing since the first day of school,” Benford said. “They were assigned to bands on day one, having never performed or sung together. A lot of planning and rehearsal happens during and outside class.”
Benford also highlighted the importance of the tech team, who set up the event.
“We have a whole tech team that arrives four hours early to set everything up. Our goal is to give all these students real-world experience,” she said. “Their goal is to become working musicians, tech people and engineers, so this live event gives them a taste of performing, setting up and tearing down.”
As the evening drew to a close, the bands finished their sets, and students who came to show support headed home. The bands met with friends and family while the rest of the team took down the stage.
“The show feels short compared to the work that goes into it, but you can tell tonight everyone had a great time, and the talent was through the roof,” Benford said.
As the final notes lingered in the cool evening air and applause filled Lancer Plaza, it was clear that Fall Fest was a resounding success, showcasing the immense talent of CBU’s commercial music students and highlighting the spirit of collaboration within the program.
