Nor’Easters Visit Walnut Creek School

“This might be the best day of my life,” whispered the Northgate High School student under her breath as she quickly adjusted her backpack and scurried into the school theater.

The student found her seat as the crowd began to hush, anticipating the arrival of the Nor’Easters, Northeastern University’s premier co-ed a cappella group that visited Walnut Creek on March 8th to share its love of music and inspire the high school students.

The performance by the student group was part of Diablo Regional Arts Association and Kaiser Permanente’s College Notes program, where a cappella groups from across the country gathered for a showcase performance at the Lesher Center for the Arts in Walnut Creek, while also performing for local high schools.

The award-winning a cappella group from Boston is comprised of 14 students at various stages in their education, from first year students to those about to graduate. With varied majors like Bio Chemistry, Cyber Security and Political Sciences, the students come from all walks of life and are no stranger to the stresses that high school students face.

The group performed for students at Northgate High School then answered questions about college, how to deal with auditions and how to be prepared for interviews.

After a set of several songs that included renditions of tunes from Michael Jackson, Ariana Grande and Sam Smith, the group took questions from the students.

When asked about how they balance studies and their passion for music, the performers talked about the importance of community.

“We are so lucky to have this musical community. When we get stressed, we remember to let loose and keep breathing, “said performer Anthony Rodriquez, a senior studying Psychology. “Stress is a part of life, but we are a tight knit group and we are always there for one another.”

“Time management skills are important,” added performer Felisha Cabral, a music industry major. “Don’t be scarred by the process. If you love it, it will work itself out. It is all doable.”

The a cappella powerhouse also invited Northgate students to show off their beat box skills. The high school students also participated in some harmonizing with the performers while also performing a few pieces of their own.

When asked if they had any advice for those applying to colleges, Nor’Easter performer Felisha spoke from the heart. “Be confident. Own your talent. Don’t be someone you are not. Go somewhere where you will be happy.”