The Penn State Songwriter’s Club is hosting a two-night THON benefit concert at 7 tonight and Saturday in 102 Forum building.
The fundraiser is in its fourth year and features both SWC members and local acts. The first night of performances consists of acoustic sets by SWC members only, drawing from indie, alternative and punk influences, said Ryan Fox, president of the Songwriter’s Club.
“All I can say is that concert-goers will definitely be impressed with the not only the songwriting ability of these artists but also the level of performance,” said Fox (junior-advertising and public relations).
The SWC was created in 2009 and aims to promote the creation of original music through events such as open-mic nights and weekly meetings, according to the club’s Facebook page.
Philanthropy is also a major part of the club’s existence, combining music and fundraising to raise awareness for Interfraternity Council/ Panhellenic Dance Marathon’s cause, Fox said.
“This year we have broken all of our club's previous THON totals through canning,” Fox said. “It is great to see the progression and push for new heights throughout the years.”
Once the sun sets on Saturday, a different medium will take the stage in the Forum building. The acoustics will be packed away and the sound knobs will be turned up as bands take the stage.
The SWC has a great line-up of awesome local bands set to perform, Fox said.
“Overall, the amps will be cranked up and all of the bands will be ready to rock,” said Fox.
The list of bands includes Eric Faust & Mike D. Mulligan, Port Vue, Flashback Forward and The Wondershop Showdown, which is also playing during the THON 2013 weekend.
Alternative rock band Flashback Forward has been a part of the Penn State music scene since 2011, and playing at events like this is a “no-brainer,” lead singer Tyler Ringland said.
“It’s a good opportunity for students to get together and celebrate a cause,” said Ringland (senior-chemical engineering). “It’s like a boost or reward in the home stretch of it all.”
Doors open at 6:30 p.m. both nights with $5 tickets available at the door. The SWC urges students to come and enjoy themselves while raising awareness for a good cause, Fox said.
“With a fundraiser like this, we hope students will see all of the good music can do and stand behind it as we move towards THON weekend,” Fox said.
