Tuesday, February 2, 2010

Spring Concert Controversy

On Feb. 26 at The Battle of the Bands, they will announce the artist who will be playing this year’s spring 2010 Concert. Currently Student Productions is being very cautious in choosing an artist that will please the most students. Six bands featuring UT students will be battling it out this month in hopes to land the opening spot at UT’s biggest annual event.

Student Production’s Vice President, Casey Harvey worries, “Our budget cannot afford what the student’s are requesting.” Most people who are not directly involved in the planning do not realize the additional unforeseen expenses, such as staging and security. In addition to the problems with cost, Student Productions must work with bands to coordinate with their previously booked tours limiting possible dates for the event. Senior Kevin Campbell said, “Hope it will not be on a Sunday this year.”

Recently SP took a poll of 1/3 of the student body gaining information on who would be preferred as this year’s campus performer. The dominant response was in favor of a rap artist. Harvey says, “The price for a well known rap artist is out of our reach.” Junior Kayla Denmark speaks for the students when she commented, “I think more students will go for a well known group or band, not just specific genre.” Right now SP is struggling between giving the students what they asked for or bring a more prominent well know artist to campus.

This is only the third year UT is hosting a major concert, therefore they still do not have the money other Universities have. According to Harvey, “We have already been allotted more money for next year’s budget.” Until then this organization is forced to work with their limited budget and lack of available artists.

This event has the highest campus turn out each year, so it is crucial to not disappoint the students. Senior Lindsey Magid said, “It’s great because it’s the one thing the school actually puts on for the students.” Most people on campus are unaware of the numerous events Student Productions does put on throughout the whole year. This spring in addition to the annual concert they are looking to hold small concert nights with local acts at Jasmine’s café. They are also in talks of coordinating an open mic night.

At this event students can also look forward free Chipotle handouts due to last year’s success. Student Productions has also worked with other sponsors around the city to attend the concert allowing students to have the opportunity to buy goods from various vendors during the show.

Look in future Minaret issues to keep you posted on additional information regarding the decided act and dates in regards to the concert!

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