I Went to EMI Night, Here’s How It Went
I Went to EMI Night, Here’s How It Went
Review and impressions of the student-organised music event.
On Tuesday, May 7th three student Associations IK, Mesa and EPU (hence EMI) came together to bring forth a music night with live bands playing all evening. The event is the fruit of a dedicated committee, formed at the beginning of the academic year, working and organising all the details to finally hold the event as the culmination of their efforts.
With over 250 people in attendance, it is safe to say that the concert was a complete success. With bouncers and a bag check at the entrance, even the first impression was one of professionalism and dedication. However, that was where the serious nature ended, as I stepped into the concert hall to see a crowd gathered in front of the stage, live music already in full swing. From that point on there were no thoughts — only vibes.
The bands on the roster comprised of music enthusiasts from the associations themselves, eager to perform and have fun on stage. With a total of 7 groups - 6 bands and 1 rapper, I had the chance to immerse myself in all kinds of musical genres. Some rock, some jazz, some alternative, there was always something unique playing that I never got bored of the sounds. In between the bands switching and setting up their equipment, you could grab a beer at the bar to the side of the venue or leave the hall for a smoke and some socialisation.
I’m not much of a music connoisseur, so I couldn’t tell you much about the music quality — the high-brow/low-brow performances and all that pretentious stuff. That is not what such events are about. This was a chance to see your friends performing on a stage or simply enjoy a lineup of talented individuals showing their passion for music and performance.
(Next time we make a review of this kind we will send a more knowledgeable person, but I had no issues with the music played and genuinely enjoyed my time that night.)
The venue they chose was also amazing for this. Simplon provided DJs in the back, ensuring a smooth and consistent sound quality throughout the hall, and it was big enough that you could walk around without pushing through a sweaty crowd. Plus, the applause after each song lasted for minutes, and I felt hyped to support the bands with the rest of the crowd.
This is something special about tight communities, however, I noticed a number of older individuals dancing along with people 30 years younger than them. It was an event not limited to the members of each association, meaning that you can attend these events as well.
While Groningen has no shortage of clubs, bars and music-focused events, it is always interesting to see how crafty students can get to showcase and participate in something they love. There are numerous cultural, academic, and entrepreneurial associations across Groningen, both tied to universities and independent of them. You can visit their website or social medias such as Instagram, where they will frequently post about upcoming events and activities they organise. While most are limited to their members, some are open to the public and you can participate in student culture.
Groningen is a student city, so even at 60 you can be a student at heart.
(P.S. — if you wish to check out the artists from the night, here are their names and some of their Instagrams — EMVE , A Thousand Mistakes, Sammi Cool, Pocket-Fish, Statera, Moira.)