From late-night rehearsals to early-morning classes, student musicians at the University of Rhode Island are striking a chord between creativity and coursework while staying in tune with both.
Two student groups, the Rhody Rhapsodies, an a cappella group, and the Musicians’ Guild, collaborate and perform together. They welcome students with all levels of musical experience and emphasize inclusivity.
The Musicians’ Guild focuses on live music and a do-it-yourself spirit, according to Musicians’ Guild Co-President Jace Tavares, a second-year student.
“It’s all about DIY concerts and making a good community for people who enjoy any kind of music, especially live music,” Tavares said. “You don’t have to play an instrument to be in the club — as long as you like music, you can just show up to the shows.”
The group encourages involvement beyond instrumentation, according to Tavares.
“We’re trying to get more involved in making flyers, photography, social media and sound mixing,” Tavares said. “Not just playing music, but all the creative stuff around it.”
From designing posters to running soundboards, members are encouraged to bring their skills to the stage and behind it, according to Tavares. It’s a club where passion is the only requirement.
One popular Guild event, Rock and Swap, forms randomly-selected group participants into bands who have two weeks to write an original song and a cover, according to Tavares.
“That’s how my band ‘Kidnapped’ was made, and we actually won it,” Tavares said.
The Guild also plans to host jam sessions and karaoke nights to encourage more interaction and community building.
Across campus, the Rhody Rhapsodies build a similarly strong sense of connection that blends music with mentorship, according to Rhody Rhapsodies Treasurer Ayla Zambardi, a third-year student.
“It’s a very lovely community,” Zambardi said. “I love it. It’s honestly the best thing I chose to do at URI.”
The group uses a Bigs and Littles system similar to sororities to help new members feel welcome and supported, according to Zambardi.
“Incoming freshmen or just new members are littles,” Zambardi said. “If you’re a previous member, you can become a big if you choose.”
Song selection is collaborative, according to Zambardi. Members submit suggestions through a Google Form and the arranging committee votes on the final setlist.
“We always include a jazz song every semester, plus upbeat songs and ballads to keep a good mix,” Zambardi said. “It’s really cool to work on the arrangements ourselves.”
The group arranges all of its own music, turning pop hits and classics into layered vocal pieces, according to Zambardi.
“The arranging committee comes together and we go through a list and we each get to choose five songs,” Zambardi said. “We arrange over winter break and in the summer, so we have everything ready for when the semester starts.”
When exams and studying demand attention, both groups emphasize balancing their musical and academic responsibilities.
“School is first, obviously,” Tavares said. “If someone has to study or has a test, another member can fill in for them.”
The Guild’s flexible system allows students to manage rehearsals alongside their classes, according to Tavares.
“I’m in two bands that play consistently, and I’m still able to focus on my schoolwork,” Tavares said. “Each band can use the practice room twice a week for two hours.”
The Rhapsodies manage their workload by prioritizing and practicing in smaller groups when needed.
“Everyone has their own stuff, but if you love the group, you make the time,” Zambardi said.
Certain moments are memorable not only for the music, but also for the fun times they bring.
“Playing on the quad for Earth Day was one of my favorite moments,” Tavares said. “It was fun to play loud and open-air with a good crowd.”
These events turn campus into a stage and give students a chance to share their work in a casual, energizing space, according to Tavares.
“There’s always a performance going on somewhere on campus, whether it’s a cappella, theater, dance or band,” Zambardi said. “Even if you don’t get into one group, there are lots of options to participate or support others. It’s a great community.”
The Rhody Rhapsodies are preparing for their annual fall invitational which will take place in late October, and will have a Halloween theme.
The Guild will host Awesomer Fest on Sept. 27 in the Memorial Union courtyard, according to Tavares. It is a free, all-day event showcasing student bands and open to the entire community.
“Last year was Awesome Fest,” Tavares said. “That’s why we’re calling it Awesomer Fest. It should be pretty fun.”
