On Tuesday, March 18, Grand Valley State University’s Modern Languages and Literatures Department and the Department of Classics hosted an event named “Medley” at the Cook-DeWitt Center. Medley was christened by the departments as “a celebration of the beauty of languages,” and included performances and on-theme appetizers.

Medley was originally conceived as a collection of French performances and presentations. Carol Wilson-Tiesma and Séverine Collignon, senior affiliate professors at the University, took over Medley’s organization four years ago, and expanded the number of languages celebrated at the event. This year, seven languages were represented by 31 participating students and professors: French, Spanish, Italian, Chinese, Latin, Arabic and Hindi. Performers spotlighted the art of language through singing and piano, recitation, artwork and the interpretation of poetry and prose.

“When Carol and I took over (the event, we) decided to celebrate all languages, not only French,” Collignon said. 

During Medley, prose and poetry recitation were popular acts across all languages, and the various musical performances showcased talents across genres, such as opera, gospel and pop. While visual artwork was less popular, an Italian cultural piece presented by the artist in Italian stole the show.  

“The artwork (stood out to me) because it was the first time a student presented their original artwork to communicate their love for (Italian) language and culture,” Collignon said. 

It was not only students who had the chance to show their appreciation for language. Visiting professor Arya Jadhav, an educator, data scientist and artist, shared her poetic work in Hindi.

“We were thrilled that our Medley event gave (Jadhav) the unique opportunity to share her native language,” Collignon said. “A Hindi poem written and performed by (her).” 

While many performers shared their native language and cultures, the event also saw participants sharing works written by others that they admired, and wanted others to appreciate as well. 

Three students interested in Latin studies performed a section of Ovid’s poem “Metamorphosis” in its original language. The 15-book poem, which was originally published in A.D. 8, is considered the Roman poet’s magnum opus.

Anthropology major Olivia Savage shared that she admires the French poet Arthur Rimbaud, who is best known for his unique creative style that influenced modern literature. Savage recited his poem, “Chanson de la plus haute tour,” which translates to, “The Song of the Highest Tower.” Rimbaud inspired Savage to study French because she wanted the ability to appreciate his writing in its original language. 

Since Medley has been extended, the event has allowed for a more expansive celebration of languages, and encourages students to explore and appreciate a diverse group of cultures.