The music listened to in high school plays an important role in people’s lives. Since individuals experience some of the most growth in their lives during this period, the music they remember counts. From music comes good times, experiences and friendships that play a crucial role in growing as a person.
Music is more than what gets listened to on spotify or apple music. Live music is the heart of a musician’s sound, capturing how an artist truly wants to portray themselves and allowing fans to be a part of the music itself. Instead of just listening to playlists, attending live music venues not only supports favorite artists, but brings some of the most fun and unforgettable experiences.
The best part is that no matter where you live, it’s possible to find a music scene for something you enjoy. Local venues exist everywhere with the support of artists and venue-goers in the area. The wide majority of venues have a loyal and dedicated community attached to them, so going to shows gives a space to connect with the community and find people with common music interests.
Green Hope’s Maya Bushel (’27) weighed in with her perspective. When asked about her experience she said, “Really good. Everyone has been super kind and nice and the etiquette [at most venues] is just amazing.” Bushel continued to talk about the positive impact on her life, saying, “It definitely made me happier and more interested in music. It’s opened a lot of opportunities to know different people and to know their experiences.” One show Bushel attended, Silverstein, became her favorite concert, because, “Everyone there was so nice and so respectful and just cared about everyone.”
Another point she put emphasis on was other people, specifically high schoolers, getting out and supporting bands. “I think everyone should be going out and listening to live music, just supporting local artists.” The ability to support the bands that Bushel loves makes concerts more meaningful to her as well, “It gives me happiness and it gives the band more recognition.”
One final word of advice from Bushel for those looking to get into local music scenes
was, “Just follow a bunch of artists, especially smaller music artists and venues on Instagram.” One account she recommended specifically was, “nc.scene” on Instagram, an account dedicated to highlighting the music community and scene in North Carolina. Getting invested in the community can be as simple as looking on social media, and from there, going to shows becomes much easier.
With that being said, other high schoolers invested in the music scene have the hopes of getting on stage themselves. James Holloway (‘27), band member of Cytrous, attends Athens Drive High School and hopes to pursue music. Being in a band gives him “The idea that someday that could be us.” His musical aspiration allows James to “Appreciate the mixing and technical aspects of making live music sound proper.” To James, putting on a good show truly is a feat and his contributions to his band help him appreciate a new outlook on live music.
Live music is truly an experience like no other. Fans of music can find a new joy in becoming invested in their local music scenes and going to shows. For anyone looking for something fun to do on a night out, concerts can be the answer.
