Recently, I attended the debut performance of the American Modern Songwriters (AMS) from the Frost School of Music at The University of Miami. The Bruce Hornsby Creative American Music (CAM) program to which this ensemble is a part of, is a program at The University of Miami that specializes in the encouragement of creating original music in all popular styles. This ensemble showcases all original music and arrangements.
In addition to the wide range of popular genres exhibited by the writers, the rotating band was one of the most engaging elements of the show. Each performer played multiple instruments in the show, even if it wasn’t their primary instrument of study. I was on the edge of my seat throughout the show because I didn’t know who would be playing what instrument next.
At the Frost School of Music, it is most common to have one discipline for a degree. The ensembles often reflect that— if you’re a bass player, you will likely be standing in the back of the stage playing bass for the entire show. This approach allows students to become really good at what they already do well, but in turn, has created a culture where students often fear being beginners. It was refreshing and inspiring to see the students in AMS playing instruments that were new to them. It sent the message that the goal of this group was to be experimental, and therefore courageous. This created a lively and accepting energy in a room that is so often used by highly critical virtuoso performers.
The songwriting displayed in this concert was of a high caliber. One of my favorites, entitled, “Popcorn,” by sophomore vocalist and guitarist, Isabella Englert, touched me with its vulnerability. It is a love song where she admits to her quirky imperfections and asks for her lover to love her, anyway. She concludes the song with, “But I burn the popcorn.” It is a beautiful and heartwarming song. The arrangement was simple and appropriate for the song, with just Isabella playing guitar and singing, accompanied by one backup vocalist and a fiddle player. “The Great Charade,” by junior, songwriter, singer, guitarist, and bassist, Zack Zebley, was another personal favorite. The song has a vibe that reminds me of the Smiths with a jazzy twist, taking me back to the 80s.
One of the most enjoyable songs for me was written and performed by senior, vocalist, guitarist and violinist, Katherine Evans. Entitled, Amphetamine, the song has a very commercial pop feel to it, with some thrilling and interesting harmonic choices in the chorus. At first, I thought this was a love song to a significant other, but as the song progressed, Katherine revealed the object of the love, not a person, but meth amphetamine, as told from the perspective of the drug itself. Her reveal was subtle and tasteful… while also touching on the harmful effects of this drug. Katherine is a strong singer and performer, and she nailed this performance.
Overall, the AMS show was enjoyable and motivating! I was left feeling like I wanted to learn a new instrument (and still do). The students were humble and gave it their all for the performance. A great debut for AMS.