OSU’s ‘Music A La Carte Series’; Curing the Midday Blues With Rhythm and Blues
Since 1969, Oregon State has been hosting informal midday concerts on Fridays throughout the fall, winter, and spring terms. Sailing strongly in its 52nd season, the ‘Music A La Carte’ series takes place in Memorial Union Lounge, where those high-ceilinged acoustics are complemented by the cozy couch seating and the rugs fit for royalty.
The noon-time gigs last 45 minutes and are free of charge. Traditionally, they have been open to the public, however, due to all of Covid-19’s endless baggage, the live audience is limited to Oregon State staff, faculty, and students. If this isn’t you, hang on! You can still attend virtually, from the comfort of your own couch and your own rug (who needs those high ceilings anyway, am I right?).
‘Music A La Carte’ is now live-streaming their shows, and they also provide the recordings for anytime-viewing if you’re a person who just hates operating on someone else’s schedule.
Last Friday, top-tier local jazz musicians who make up ‘The Olem Alves Trio,’ played to a relatively filled Memorial Union lounge. Handfuls of students filtered in and out between classes, while some settled in on the couches to work on assignments. Oregon State faculty stopped by on their lunch breaks, friends dressed up for a day-date ventured in to listen and chat, customers from Java Stop posted up with their coffees and scones to tune in.
The feel of the room is casual but inviting, cozy but light, communal but respectful of space.
‘Music A La Carte’ allows for a refreshing break between classes and obligations, is a lovely way to spend the lunch hour, and ultimately presents the perfect opportunity to pretend life is actually just one giant couch with a breezy marimba backbeat.
If you missed last week’s show and are devastated (understandably), dry those eyes and check out the recording!
Music à la Carte: Olem Alves Trio
February 4 – Jade Hails, Jazz Percussionist
February 11 – OSU Strings Chamber Ensemble
February 18 – OSU Trombone Ensemble and Tuba-Euphonium Ensemble
