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It’s easy finding musicians at the University of Maine, but finding outlets for showcasing their music is another story. That’s where the Campus Activities Board’s acoustic competition “The Project” comes into play. The competition, which kicked off Tuesday, Jan. 27, will span the semester. By offering a place for many artists to perform, The Project spotlights local, campus-grown music culture.
The Project has been around for several years. The Bear’s Den offered standing room only for the first qualifying round. According to Melissa Fitta, the CAB member in charge of the program, there are always inquiries about the competition.
The Project allows an array of artists to strut their stuff. Acts on the first night ranged from solo artists such as the barefooted Seth Poplaski to full bands like Angry James playing stripped-down versions of their sets.
“What’s great about The Project is the caliber of talent you find here,” Poplaski said. “There were six performers who all deserved to be on stage tonight.”
For Poplaski, The Project has given him a great opportunity to perform for people. “Music has been a part of my life forever, and I am always looking for a place to play,” he said.
Familiar faces from previous years were on stage and in the audience. Members of Sprinkletown, fan favorites from last year’s contest, were in attendance, although they said they would not compete again.
Fans are appreciative of The Project’s place on the UMaine campus.
“I like to enjoy a night on the town. I consider myself a cultured person and I am glad to support the arts,” said Ian Miller, who attended on Tuesday night. He also feels The Project is a great outlet for offering aspiring musicians a place to debut their music.
Creative songwriting and covers were both on display, including Outkast’s “Hey Ya!” and Jason Mraz’s “I’m Yours.” Indie hipsters could rock out to Take Luck’s cover of Vampire Weekend’s “A-Punk,” while nearly everyone could sing along to James Gilmore’s cover of The Steve Miller Band’s “The Joker.” The audience clapped and hummed along to much of the fare.
Combining elements of American Idol, open mic nights and battle of the bands competitions, The Project’s atmosphere is friendly and entertaining.
The contest is also gaining a reputation at UMaine. Poplaski said he’d heard about The Project for three years before finally joining.
According to Fitta, “It is great to see how many talented people there are at UMaine. When we announce the event, all these people seem to just come out of the woodwork.”
The next qualifying round will take place on Tuesday, Feb. 3.
Bangor Daily News