Singing and original guitar solos could be heard throughout the halls as students performed live music in the courtyard Thursday, May 8. With a slice of watermelon in one hand and a paper cup of lemonade in the other, students across all grades gathered to watch their classmates and friends perform at the annual Archella.
Archella transformed the historic courtyard into a festival venue. With bracelet making, flower-crown crafting and music echoing, the atmosphere buzzed with creative and “vibrant” energy, according to performer Natalie Subotky (’28).
Coachella, held annually in Coachella Valley, California, is a music festival known for its wide-ranging performances. Inspired by this event, Archella brings a similar show to the Archer campus. The first annual Archella was held in 2016.
Subotky sang “Dreamer” by Laufey. She reflected on the experience of singing in front of her classmates and friends.
“The community all came together,” Subotky said. “There were so many vibrant colors at all the different stations: the watermelon, the flower crowns. The emotions were just very excited and full of friendship.”
A total of 13 students performed 11 acts, which included both pop hit covers and original songs. Freshman Izzy Escalante watched her classmates perform from the audience.
“It was so fun to hear everyone’s different style and hear their own takes on the songs,” Escalante said. “It was sunny, the blankets were out, the crowd was there, people were singing, it was just amazing. I felt a sense of community.”
Escalante said she was excited to hear her friends and classmates perform and express themselves. Escalante most enjoyed hearing classmates Grace Nordling (’28) and Farah Sandoval (’28) perform “From The Start” by Laufey.
“I felt really proud of my friends who went up there,” Escalante said. “It felt really, really joyful.”
Freshman Tea Walker said the spirit of connection and encouragement inspired many performers to step out of their comfort zones. Walker performed Pink Pony Club by Chappell Roan. Walker had never performed at Archella, but they said they knew they would enjoy it.
“If you want to do Archella, you should,” Walker said. “I never thought I could do it until this year, and then I did it and it worked out great.”
Although singing in front of classmates might seem intimidating, Walker and Subotky said they were grateful they found the courage to do it. Subotky added that Archella was more than just entertainment — it was a celebration of creativity, courage, and connection, making it a perfect way to end the school year.
“If you like singing, or if you just like performing,” Walker said, “definitely do Archella.”
