Featuring an impressive lineup with openers Rosewater, a beloved student band, and Hot Chelle Rae and Owl City as the main acts, the Georgetown Program Board’s (GPB) Spring Concert bridged quality, price and convenience on March 22.

Rosewater had a fairly normal set before dropping an original song to close out a tried-and-true opening. Having played for bigger crowds and stages such as club formals and Battle of the Bands, they performed with the professionalism and comfortability I would expect from experienced musicians. The band’s on-stage chemistry is fantastic, and overall, whether at McDonough Arena or the Alumni Square courtyard, Rosewater is a joy to watch perform. 

Hot Chelle Rae’s rendition of “Tonight Tonight” was a crowd-pleaser, but what really brought the performance together was when the band brought up an audience member to sing along with them. Our mystery Georgetown student who was pulled on stage most definitely stole the show — she knew all the words and even had a poster ready. Maddy, if you’re out there, you’re the real star of the GPB Spring Concert. In all seriousness, though, Hot Chelle Rae had a great stage presence, capturing the audience’s attention throughout their whole set. These songs were all very danceable and captured exactly what a student concert should be: singing along with your friends. 

This attitude was embraced by many students adorned with light-up glasses and glowsticks, ready to wave them along to the music. The lead singer of Hot Chelle Rae talked about his exes and how they inspired some of his songs in an attempt to relate to the romantically fraught college students in front of him. 

To end the show, Owl City began with a first song that featured him playing a variety of instruments, from drums to keyboard to guitar. Who knew this was how the hit song “Fireflies” was made? After this, he transitioned into his main set with a backup cellist and drummer. He continued to hop between his instruments throughout the night, at one point even using a tambourine. 

This musical medley provided an unpredictable and eclectic performance that surprised this casual Owl City listener. It was great to see this performance come to life, and Owl City seemed truly excited to be playing for us throughout the night, giving waves and bows to the crowd. Going to this performance was very full circle. Having sung Fireflies at an elementary school choir concert, it was quite special to hear it live. 

At the end of the night, I walked away having experienced three uniquely entertaining acts, made some new friends and enjoyed the fruits of the GPB’s dedication to putting this event together. I look forward to their next event and wish both Hot Chelle Rae and Owl City a successful tour!