Unplugged at Alcuin brings live music to CSB+SJU

The library isn’t usually the first place you’d think of when you hear the word “concert.” Fluorescent lights, keyboard clicks and hushed conversations don’t really seem to radiate the same atmosphere as a sold-out stadium tour. But on certain nights this semester, that expectation of silence is being challenged.

Enter Unplugged at Alcuin, the new performance series sponsored by the CSB+SJU Libraries, inviting members of the community to perform acoustic sets at the Dietrich Reinhardt Learning Commons. By bringing live art into a space typically reserved for study, the series is redefining how a library can be used.

Starting out Unplugged at Alcuin didn’t come without hurdles. A couple of years ago after stepping into the role of Student Engagement Librarian, Sarah Gewirtz experimented with hosting an open mic night, but it didn’t gain much traction. As a result, she was hesitant to bring back live performances to the library: that is, until a new opportunity presented itself a few months back.

“My colleague, Aaron Chalich, manages the band If Nothing Else and asked about doing music in the library,” Gewirtz said. “Since he has experience with gigs, I felt confident to give it another try.”

The first Unplugged at Alcuin event launched in January with If Nothing Else. Last Wednesday, the band Fiddle and Flannels performed, introducing country and Irish music to the library. Gewirtz’s risk had paid off: the Learning Commons was packed with students—some who came specifically for the set, and others halfway through their homework who found a much needed mental break in the music, especially as midterms approach. For Gewirtz, the highlight was the community atmosphere.

“While they performed, I sat by the Schu, worked on my taxes and sang along with them!” Gewirtz said. “We would love to have more performances like that.”

The vision extends beyond music. The goal for this year is to host two performances per month, and interest from potential performers is already growing. There are plans to expand into poetry and maybe even revisit the idea of an open mic night.

The next performance is March 25 at 7 p.m., featuring Fr. Michael Peterson, one of the monks of St. John’s Abbey. He’ll be playing the Native American-style flute, with music inspired by the nature surrounding St. John’s. “I am hoping it becomes a spot where folks go to hear new music and discover a new favorite,” Gewirtz said. “It’s an opportunity to support the community.”

Whether you are a fan of live music or just in the mood for a more melodic study session, Unplugged at Alcuin is proving that the library is the best place to be. If you have any questions or are interested in showing off your own talents, email Sarah Gewirtz at sgewirtz@csbsju.edu