From the Department of Music at East Tennessee State University, the ensemble Greyscale is gearing up for another dynamic concert that promises to blend tight harmonies, inventive arrangements and high energy. On Nov. 7, at 7:30 P.M., they will hold their concert “Lucky 13” at the ETSU Martin Center in Foundation Grand Hall to celebrate their 13th season. Directed by Dr. Matthew Potterton, the group is known for turning well-loved pop and jazz hits into powerful, story-driven performances.
“Greyscale is East Tennessee State University’s premier contemporary vocal ensemble,” said Dr. Potterton.
The ensemble goes a little bit deeper than that, though. In addition to being a very dynamic ensemble musically, the ensemble’s “mission is to make high-level vocal music accessible and exciting for campus and community audiences,” Potterton explained.
What sets Greyscale apart from other performances on campus is its combination of professional-level musicianship and vibrant performance style. “Greyscale features drums, bass, guitar, and piano as backup to 12 amazingly talented singers,” Potterton said. “The concert is high energy and features incredible music from the 1960s to present.”
This semester’s concert will feature a mix of popular hits spanning multiple decades. The theme and repertoire were decided collaboratively through a creative and democratic process. “It’s a collaborative process led by me,” he noted. “The ensemble holds listening sessions, tries ideas in rehearsal, and votes on what best fits the story of the show. Student leaders also recommend solo features and help craft the final running order.”
Potterton encourages ETSU students and community members to get involved in supporting the group. For more information about Greyscale, feel free to check out their social media account @ETSUGreyscale, donate through the ETSU Foundation to Greyscale, or, if you feel an even deeper connection to Greyscale, come to auditions in April!
“We develop versatile musicians who can collaborate, arrange, improvise, and communicate compelling stories through song,” Dr. Potterson said.
For extra information about Greyscale or the Department of Music at ETSU, feel free to reach out to Dr. Potterton at potterton@mail.etsu.edu.
