Spartan Sur is known in and beyond the banks of the Red Cedar for their blending of Western and Indian music. Their unique approach to collegiate a cappella and unwavering commitment to their craft makes them a group that leaves a lasting impression. Continue reading to learn more about this awesome community of musicians and friends from the eyes of Spartan Sur’s president, Kirthi Krishnan.
Becoming A Cappella Trailblazers
In 2009, Spartan Sur was founded by "a group of friends who were deeply passionate about making music and connecting with their culture," as described by Kirthi. She explains that the South Asian a cappella "circuit," or niche, is relatively new. As a cultural group on campus, they not only enjoy making music together but also appreciate participating in on-campus cultural events. Spartan Sur's journey is an inspiring testament to the power of music in fostering cultural connections and creating a space for artistic expression.
Embracing Diversity in Music and Culture
While Spartan Sur specializes in singing captivating mashups of South Asian and Western tunes, they extend a warm welcome to anyone interested in learning about South Asian culture and music. Kirthi emphasizes that the group is highly inclusive, creating a space for all to join their musical journey.
Social and highly energetic, Spartan Sur exudes enthusiasm, making them a vibrant and engaging group. Those eager to be part of this dynamic and spirited community will undoubtedly find a home among these passionate musicians. Joining Spartan Sur means not only experiencing the magic of music but also immersing oneself in the rich tapestry of South Asian culture.
Balancing Passion and Academics
Spartan Sur warmly welcomes individuals who are eager to embrace the world of competitive a cappella. During the fall, they delight in performing at a diverse range of gigs, both on and off campus. Rehearsals are typically scheduled three times a week, with each session lasting 2 to 3 hours, allowing members to hone their musical prowess.
As the spring semester approaches and their competition draws near, Spartan Sur intensifies their preparation. Rehearsal frequency increases to 4 to 5 times a week, with each session spanning 3 to 4 hours. While this may seem like a substantial time commitment, rest assured that the team fully understands the importance of academics and will accommodate members' other extracurriculars and class schedules.
Spartan Sur's commitment to fostering a supportive and flexible environment ensures that its members can pursue their passion for a cappella while excelling academically. The group's dedication to both music and the well-being of its members makes for an enriching and fulfilling experience within this vibrant musical family.
Making Lifelong Memories
When asked about her favorite memory with the team, Kirthi's face lit up. She shared that her most cherished moments with the group always revolve around the night before a competition. After months of dedicated preparation, the team comes together to unwind, bonding over face masks and watching Pitch Perfect. These heartwarming gatherings embody the core of Spartan Sur's culture – a deep connection with one another that they treasure dearly.
Conclusion
Spartan Sur's warm and energetic community welcomes all who wish to explore South Asian culture and music, creating a unique and special space for musicians to forge lifelong friendships. Through their dedication to both passion and academics, Spartan Sur strikes a perfect harmony between musical excellence and academic growth. Spartan Sur leaves an indelible mark, standing as a shining example of how art can transcend cultural boundaries and bring people together through music.
Think you’d be a good fit for the Sur team? Follow them on social media at @SpartanSur to get audition updates and learn more about their community!
