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PSU SNATS Review

Posted by Chelsea Sweithelm on 11/24 at 12:29 PM

The Penn State University Student Chapter of the National Association of Teachers of Singers’ (PSU SNATS) jazz performance was an uncommon show for Penn State’s musical scene. Unlike most concerts that take place at local bars or at large venues, PSU SNAT’s performance last Tuesday night was held at a small café, Abba Java Coffee House, located on the corner of Locust and Calder Street.

In this relaxed atmosphere, the audience, composed of family members, friends and jazz enthusiasts alike, enjoyed listening to performances of numerous jazz classics from the mid-1900s.  The show’s lineup included songs such as Nat King Cole’s “Autumn Leaves”, Ella Fitzgerald’s “Cry Me a River”, and Irving Berlin’s “They Say It’s Wonderful.” 

A student-written song called “Snow in October” stood out among the other performances.  The inspiration for this fun-loving song came from the bizarre snowy weather we experienced in Happy Valley earlier this year. The lyrics were comical, poking fun at people falling on the icy streets and their lack of winter clothing. By the end of the song, the audience was laughing out loud.

Timeless tunes, candlelight and free coffee gave a tranquil feeling to the show, and the portrayal of classic jazz songs helped audiences develop a better understanding and deeper appreciation of how music has evolved over time.