The Arts at Noon series is nothing new to Grand Valley State University. The set of performances, once known as The Lunch Break, is in its 37th year at the university. Mark Williams, an associate professor of applied trombone in the music and dance department, coordinated this year’s performances. Having planned it the past five consecutive years, he says this round of concerts focuses on bringing in the widest variety of music possible.

“The whole idea is exposure,” Williams said. “These are world class musicians giving away free performances. This is an opportunity for both Lakers and the wider community to explore a wide breadth of musical styles right here in Allendale.”

The concerts are held every other Wednesday at noon in the Cook-DeWitt Center; ranging in focus from Mediterranean fusion bands to variety cello pieces. The next concert, dated for Sept. 17, features German pianist Andreas Klein. Following on Oct. 1 is the Donald Sinta Quartet, featuring GVSU’s own Dan Graser.

What makes this series notable is the intention that went into making it. The semester-spanning series is entirely free, and it extends beyond the Laker student body. The general public is also invited to enjoy the shows completely free of charge.

“The hope is that, through diversity, we might help students find new styles of music to enjoy and become passionate about,” Williams said.

Beyond the opportunity to discover a new passion, students might be pleased to discover that attendance of the series is associated with a one-credit liberal arts course; and even serves as an introduction to music.

Other artists scheduled to play this fall include groups such as the Crispin Campbell Quartet; a band whose roots sprawl from jazz to tango, samba and even blues. They’ll be sharing their unique take on music with GVSU on Nov. 5.

Then you have Rebel; an early music ensemble focusing on renaissance and baroque music. They won the international competition for ensembles and early music – one of the most prestigious awards of its kind – and they’re coming to perform for free on campus on Nov. 19.

Given such a wide array of performances, students should have no problem finding at least one act that piques their interest. From classics of the Enlightenment to contemporary improvisational, the Arts at Noon series works to capture the diversity driven mindset that fuels a liberal arts college.

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