Coffeehouse, the Gonzaga Student Body Association’s weekly concert series, is one of the university’s true hidden gems. Every Wednesday from 8-9 a.m., the Hemm Den in the basement of the Hemmingson Center lights up with student musical performances.
The performers and the students alike that attend see it as a great artistic outlet and as a chance to take a break from the hectic school week.
Last Wednesday saw a performance from two Coffeehouse staples in GU seniors Grace Cooper and Kaitlyn Wiens. Both are independent singer-songwriters, and have contributed to the music community at Gonzaga throughout their time at the university.
“I’ve really enjoyed playing at Coffeehouse,” said Grace Cooper, who performed on Jan 19. “Sharing my music with the community is a privilege.”
Wiens released an original EP, titled “In My Head,” in 2021 that can be found on a number of streaming platforms including Spotify.
Cooper, for her part, is working on releasing music of her own. Though talented artists alone, they come together to form a truly dynamic duo; the night saw them perform several duets, wherein their individual styles and musical prowess complemented one another brilliantly.
The performance began with a duet; Cooper on piano and Wiens on guitar. Both sang and began a night of original music with a song Wiens had written. They traded the stage back and forth for a few songs before sharing it for a duet.
On some songs, Wiens would accompany Cooper on guitar and harmonize, their voices intertwining. The emotion was palpable; as with all independent singer-songwriters, it was clear that their stories were written from the heart. Some songs were old; some were new. One of Wiens’ songs was recently discovered from the ‘Voice Memos’ app on her phone.
“I love Coffeehouse,” said Wiens. “It’s a space where I can try new things creatively.”
For those who come to listen, it’s the perfect way to keep up with some of their favorite on-campus artists.
Wednesday’s Coffeehouse was exactly what the concert series has always intended to be. A space where artists can share their art with their community; and a space where that art can be enjoyed by their friends and strangers alike. Its representative of the strong community that Gonzaga strives for. It’s a space for artists to grow, both for themselves and with one another.
“Collaborating is a joy,” Cooper said. “And it inspires me as an independent artist.”
Some of the songs were about love; others were about loss. But they all sounded as if they were written to be performed in the company of friends.
If you want to attend a GSBA Coffeehouse event, stay on the lookout and follow them on Instagram @gsbacoffeehouse.