Amid the diverse landscape of the University of Arkansas, music is a unifying force that transcends boundaries, language and culture.  Beyond a simple form of entertainment, music tells powerful stories and forges genuine connections.  For UA students, music has the potential to bring people together and create harmonious friendships.  

It’s hard to walk across campus without seeing tudents nodding their heads to the beat of tunes playing through their AirPods.  In class, you might engage in discussion about anticipating your next concert or recounting the thrill of dancing the night away over the weekend. Music is a constant companion that infuses college students’ daily lives.  

For some students, music is more than just a pastime.  Garland Watson, a freshman double major in music education and clarinet performance, is in the wind ensemble marching band and frequently performs at the Faulkner Performing Arts Center. 

“Music is my everything in life,” he said.  “I listen to music constantly.  Most of my friends have come through my love for music.” 

For some students, music is a formal platform to showcase passion and skill, but for others, it is a method of expressing unbridled, carefree joy, especially through the realms of karaoke.   

Reid Pinckard, a junior journalism and political science major, is a self-proclaimed karaoke enthusiast.   

“Karaoke is so much more than singing and singing well,” Pinckard said.  “It’s a chance to just completely be you around random strangers that don’t care whether you’re pitchy or completely tone-def.  It’s community building in the most unusual way.”   

The UofA is home to many music-related organizations, including band, theater, dance and orchestra. Headliners Concert Committee also works to conduct free musical events throughout the year.  Outside of campus, many students have also ventured into creating their own bands or beginning a DJ business.  From pursuing music as a degree to attending a concert, Fayetteville is a place where everyone can find a way to dance to the beat of their own musical drum. 

“Music is something that connects everyone,” Watson said.  “Nobody doesn’t like music, and it’s always something people can talk about.”