Rider a cappella group feels the modern ‘vibe’

By Nick Greco

Rider’s musical prestige is often attributed to the Princeton campus, but music also rings out on the Lawrenceville campus, according to the members of a newly formed singing group.

“A lot of people do not recognize Rider for its music because of Westminster, but being a part of the Rider Vibes really sets us apart from them,” said Esi Sapara-Grant.
Rider’s first and only a cappella group debuted for its fall season at Family Day on Nov. 5, 2005.

“Vibes is like nothing else you can find on this campus, where students get together and arrange their own versions of popular music,” said Keith Carletta.

The Rider Vibes is a group increasing in numbers every semester, said President Jessica Presuto. Currently, there are 11 auditioned singers who perform at various events throughout the year.

“Over the past couple years the Vibes have really taken off,” said Carletta. “We have increased our song list, and almost doubled our numbers since we started.”

Vibes chooses songs that are popular and entertaining. Some selections from this year’s repertoire include “Island in the Sun” by Weezer; “Everything I Do, I Do It for You” by Bryan Adams; “This Love” by Maroon 5; and “For the Longest Time” by Billy Joel.

“It was an awesome experience to attend a music concert on campus and actually know the songs,” said sophomore Lauren Kinney.

The group originally began as an all-male group founded by Carletta and then joined with an all-female group, the Rider Harmonies, to make a larger co-ed group, the Vibes.

“I just joined this year and I already feel so close and so comfortable with everyone in it,” said Maria Panvini. “I love Vibes!”

The Vibes audition both semesters and are always looking for new members. Anyone interested in singing, vocal percussion or performances should look for flyers and check out the web site at www.rider.edu/~vibes.

“Vibes is a great opportunity for students who just love to sing and want to have fun. There is no pressure and not a lot of commitment. We always have a great time,” said Presuto.