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Forget about Paula Abdul, Randy Jackson, Simon Cowell, and the peppy Ryan Seacrest. "Arrupe Idol" was much better without them.
Hosted by the Pedro Arrupe Service Trip group, the Friday evening showcase was full of original songs and some covers performed by members of the Aruppe group, their friends, and supporters in McGuinn 121.
The evening was comprised of eight performers, each playing a two song set. With each new musician came a completely unique selection of songs and style.
Soft acoustic pieces were played along with heavy rock songs on the electric guitar. But ultimately, it was the crowd who would decide which song and style prevailed.
Audience members (filling in for Cowell and the gang) were given a piece of paper with all the names of the musicians so they could cast their vote. The top two winners would receive prizes. Choosing between the performers would not be an easy task for the audience. Covers such as "Wish You Were Here" by Pink Floyd, "Father and Son" by Cat Stevens, and Warren Zevon's "Werewolves of London," were all played with a great deal of energy and excitement. This may have been in part because of the reactions from the crowd.
"A big factor of tonight was building community," said Brian Kaufman, co-director for the Belize service trip, A&S '06. Kaufman explained about the three pillars of the Pedro Aruppe Service: social justice, spirituality, and building community, and how they played a role in Friday's event. "Tonight we're focusing on building community. We just want to see people coming together to support the trip," he said.
In the crowd, one would find a range of people. This eclectic group provided for much dialogue between performers and audience members, giving the evening a more intimate feeling.
Guitarists were sometimes accompanied by another musician, as was the case with the opening guitarist who was playing beside a bassist. A couple of the musicians said they did not go to BC, but were here in order to support their friends and the service trips in general.
"Tonight was great," explained Deirdre Donahue, a co-director for the Belize service trip and A&S '06. "The highlight was just seeing so many people coming together in support of the trips. Especially the musicians, who got up there and made this night all possible."
"Well, I just love playing, and tonight it was for such a good cause," said Jonas Westbrook, a participant in the contest and A&S '06.
"Preparing to go on a Nicaragua service trip soon, I understand the need to raise money," he added. Not only did Westbrook share his music talents with the audience, he also worked the soundboard for the night. Donations were more than welcome. Soda, snacks, and T-shirts were also sold. All proceeds went to the Pedro Arrupe service trips, specifically the trips to Guatemala and Belize, which were the focus for the evening. Red Fabbri, A&S '06, took first place and earned the title of Arrupe Idol. At second place came Matt Porcelli, A&S '06. Finally, rounding out at third place was Bill Hurley, A&S '06.
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