The Ferris State campus buzzed with energy last week thanks to an electrifying performance by an up-and-coming band that drew students, faculty and community members alike to the outdoor venue.
With a lineup filled with high-energy performances, engaging musicianship and charismatic stage presence, the band left an impression on the Big Rapids community, which typically sees few live events. The show wasn’t just about the music; it was a testament to the impact of live, interactive entertainment on a campus starved for something unique and memorable.
Concert organizer and public relations senior Vinny Short shared that the event was part of an ongoing effort to diversify campus events and bring something fresh to the student body.
“I think it’s incredibly important to offer events that appeal to different interests,” Short said. “While sports and other traditional events draw big crowds, there’s a significant group of students who want to experience live music, especially rock or indie bands. For the people who did come, it was a chance to enjoy music in a way you just can’t replicate on a screen.”
He mentioned that these types of events have declined in popularity on campuses over the last decade, as students often opt for smartphone-based entertainment.
Short’s introduction to the band came from an unusual chain of connections involving a bluegrass band he merchandised for, which led him to the Nashville-based manager of this group. It’s a testament to the power of networking and how it can result in meaningful opportunities.
“They were looking for some help with marketing and event coordination,” Short said. “I knew we needed something new on campus, so it was a perfect fit.”
Publicity Coordinator for Entertainment Unlimited Kyren Passienier echoed Short’s enthusiasm.
“Working on social media and publicity for events like this gives me a chance to really make a difference in what’s happening here at Ferris,” Passienier said. “Even if turnouts are small, it’s crucial to provide these experiences for students. We need more of it.”
As they scanned the crowd, they observed many attendees visibly engaged and excited, offering a level of energy that they believed was essential for building a lively campus environment.
After the show, the band members were approached by many students eager to discuss their performance, buy merchandise and learn more about their music. The lead singer and other members emphasized their joy in playing to a college crowd, viewing universities as the ideal launching pad for growing their fan base. One band member noted that when they play at universities, it’s more than just a gig. It’s a way to connect with people who will remember them, add their songs to their playlists and take their music with them even after graduation.
The band has its roots in various cities, including Nashville, Los Angeles and Boston, where each member found a path to music in different ways.
Band member Karalyne Winegarner, originally from Boston, mentioned that she met fellow band member Derek Sprague in another band before they shifted their focus to forming this group. Like many indie bands, their formation story reflects a combination of chance encounters and a shared love for music.
“It’s crazy to think how it all came together,” Winegarner said.
Despite the modest crowd size, the band was pleased with the audience’s reaction and openness, commenting on the community feel of Big Rapids and their eagerness to return.
New band member Nikki Christie is from Los Angeles and got the chance to explore smaller-scale venues.
“The students were really into it, and that’s what matters most to us,” Christie said. “We love connecting with people who appreciate what we do, and Ferris gave us that chance. We’re always up for coming back, anytime.”
Events like this highlight an opportunity for Ferris to continue cultivating an environment rich in diversity and engagement, especially in the realm of entertainment. As Short and Passienier both agreed, live music brings students together in a unique way, breaking up the usual campus routine. For a town like Big Rapids, the success of this event could be a launching pad for more such concerts and cultural experiences in the future.
The band’s performance on campus was more than a simple gig; it served as a reminder of the power of live, shared experiences in a digital age – a vital element that students, faculty and local residents alike can look forward to seeing more of at Ferris.