Acoustic Afternoons at South Fayette Middle School fosters support and creativity

A small project to highlight students’ unique talents has evolved into a successful initiative at South Fayette Middle School! “Acoustic Afternoons”, which are held during an activity period each month, allow students to perform for peers in an informal setting.

The school’s Library HUB transforms into an open mic venue in which students, teachers, and administrators perform spoken word, vocal, dance, and instrumental works led by Sixth Grade English Language Arts Teacher, Mr. Benjamin Laughton.

The newly remodeled library has provided a natural home for the monthly events due to the new presentation space equipped with a touch screen television, stage, sound and lighting system, and new seating.

Each month, interested students take part in an audition with Mr. Laughton during specified activity periods leading up to the Acoustic Afternoon. These auditions are not to judge talent, but rather to gauge preparedness.

The intent of the program is to provide a “non-evaluative” performance outlet for students while also creating a level of entertainment, and an opportunity for students to demonstrate support for each other. The program fosters the creativity of middle level students, provides an opportunity to observe the talents of the staff, and adds a layer to our supportive, middle school community. Since beginning the program in 2016, Acoustic Afternoons have allowed over fifty students to perform works from many art genres for their peers and hundreds of students to enjoy the monthly performances.