Carleton students showcased their talent at the Raven’s Roost Sept. 20 to raise funds for Canadian Blood Services.
Complete with a handful of guitar players, spoken-word poets, dance, and a little ambiance, the Roost was transformed from a recreation room into a coffeehouse — an intimate setting with low lights and a crowd of people.
Donations were collected throughout the coffeehouse to raise funds for Canadian Blood Services, said organizer Travis Moir, a master’s student at Carleton.
The lineup included a lot of folk music and soft-spoken acoustic sets. Among the performers was guitarist Connor MacFadyen, a first-year student. Although he’s had previous experience with coffeehouses in high school, MacFadyen said he was still nervous.
“I’m more nervous when I have to talk and introduce the song more than actually performing it,” MacFadyen said.
He performed original songs — one specifically about his pet who was growing old in age.
First-year environmental science student Jessie Thuswaldner played only four chords but sang several different songs from diverse genres. From the Beatles’ “Let It Be” to Beyonce’s “Halo,” the four chords remained consistent throughout her performance while her voice carried well over her instrument in a fun, upbeat performance.
In addition to musicians, others like Tracy Ampofoh, a second-year social work student, performed spoken word. Her poetry was centred on love and the journey to it.
“I draw inspiration from other people’s experiences,” said Ampofoh, which is why she said so many listeners could relate to her poetry.
Being used to closed, intimate spaces like the coffeehouse, Ampofoh said she felt at home and comfortable with those in the audience, “many of which [she] shared personal experiences with,” she said.