Sunday, April 12 was an evening to remember for Academy senior and cello major, Jess Newham - she was selected to perform as an opening act for singer-songwriter Mason Jennings before his performance at Corson Auditorium.
Director of Interlochen Presents, Derek Kwan, wanted to get the student body involved in the concert and with the help of his community service student, Aly Sarafa, sought a student-performer who would be a good fit to open for Mason Jennings, a pop-folk artist. “We wanted to create a positive vibe around campus for this concert and showcase some of our own talent,” said Kwan. “This seemed like the perfect way.”
After consulting with many Academy students, Sarafa recommended cello major Jess Newham, who enthusiastically embraced the opportunity. Newham sent her demo CD to Mason Jennings’ management, who would have final approval. There was no guarantee that Jennings would agree to a student performance, but after hearing her CD they agreed to share the stage with the Academy senior.
Newham was added to all promotional materials and even performed a three-song acoustic set live on WNMC public radio, the local college station, prior to the concert.
Surprisingly, Newham first picked up the guitar last summer while studying at the Berklee College of Music. She has progressed rapidly. “That is what I want to do for the rest of my life,” she said. “I want to perform on stage.”