Performers gather among students in the courtyard, hoping to perform their very best. Their nerves skyrocket as they anticipate stepping on stage to sing or play an instrument for the Archer community. However, once they enter their element, the nerves quickly float away.
This is SongShare, an annual, student-run event that provides a space for Archer students to share their passion for music. Students prepare either an original song or cover and perform it using an instrument. This year, the event took place Jan. 16, during lunch in the courtyard.
Senior Emerson Cohen manages SongShare, along with other musical events such as Archella and Coffeehouse, by choosing who performs and setting up with the Archer staff. She has been a part of Archer’s music program since sixth grade, and from there, Cohen said she developed a love for music.
“I realized that I wanted to create a space and also maintain a space for students to share their voices in ways that aren’t otherwise possible, especially since the concerts focus mostly on choral music and orchestral music,” Cohen said. “ I think it’s really important to have a space for students to share covers of commercial music and original work with the community.”
Arts teacher Chris Kapica, who runs music courses at Archer, helped facilitate the event. He said he was glad to see it was mainly orchestrated by students.
“I want to help any way I can,” Kapica said, “to allow students to have a stage [and] to express themselves.”
Cohen said this year, many younger students submitted an application to perform during the event, which she was glad to see. She said that if an opportunity like SongShare had been provided when she was in middle school, it would have pushed her further in her musical journey.
“It’s so awesome to see so many young students get involved,” Cohen said. “There are so many sixth graders submitting and performing, which I think is so admirable.”
Charlotte Joe (‘27) performed at SongShare in previous years but was unable to participate this year due to travel. She remembered how in last year’s SongShare, her keyboard had gone out, but Cohen stepped onto the stage with her and assisted in her performance by playing guitar. Joe said the experience was empowering since she was able to persevere with Cohen.
“We didn’t practice at all before; we literally never sang together before,” Joe said. “It was just pretty magical, honestly.”
Cohen said SongShare is more than just a stage for students to perform — it also helps students build skills and meet new people through music.
“I think that’s really important because then you can build those connections,” Cohen said. “Whereas, if there wasn’t a space to show music, it’s hard to know who else is interested in these things.”
Kapica said that when he was in high school, there were less opportunities for him to share his voice, which is why he is so supportive of initiatives like SongShare at Archer.
“Art is a great way to connect with people,” Kapica said, “whether it’s commiserating or celebrating, sharing in the human experience.”
Additional reporting by Georgia Lebowitz (’28).
