SAN MARCOS – On Thursday, April 30, from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m., Palomar Performing Arts will host “VIBES – A Student Composers’ Recital” in the Performance Lab (D-10), offering an evening of live, student-created music.
The recital, directed by music professor Madelyn Byrne, will feature original compositions from student musicians across a range of styles. The event is designed to highlight student creativity while giving audiences a chance to experience new music in a live setting.
“Vibes is a student composer’s concert. There will be many styles of music, from rock to classical. People will be drawn to this concert for the innovation and creativity of the music,” Byrne said.
This hands-on experience draws student musicians to perform their compositions whenever they get the chance.
Jesse McKnight is a composer whose music will be featured in the concert. He also composed music that was included in the last recital, held in the fall of 2025. McKnight is returning to the performance lab this Thursday with new music.
“Hearing my music on the right acoustic live instruments really brings the idea to life,” McKnight said.
The performance will include compositions that range from classical to modern styles, reflecting the diverse influences and approaches of Palomar students. Organizers describe the evening as one filled with “excitement, mystery and art,” emphasizing both technical skill and creative expression.
Max Booth, who is a percussionist also returning for his second performance, will be performing one of the compositions made by McKnight.
Student composer recitals like “VIBES” are a common part of the music program at Palomar. The performing arts annually hosts concerts to showcase original student work.
These events are typically organized at the end of a semester or academic year, giving composition students the chance to premiere pieces they have developed in class and through independent study.
Brenden Condon, who is composing his first-ever composition at Palomar, is looking forward to his music reaching a live audience.
“It’s a new experience, and it’s very interesting because you have to work with the other people in your class, and you also have to work with the people performing your music to make sure that it comes out the way you have it in your head. It’s a very rewarding experience,” Condon said.
These performances also serve as a bridge between classroom instruction and real-world artistic experience, allowing student composers to collaborate with performers and present their work to a live audience.
Condon, McKnight and Booth all agreed that student composer recitals give them motivation and inspiration for their passion in the performing arts.
“It’s one of the only times we get to choose our own pieces. We’re the main ones directing and composing ourselves. We’re the main ones organizing a rehearsal,” Condon said. “…At least this concert, we have much more control than we otherwise would normally have in a concert band or the jazz ensemble. It’s mostly just … It has the most spots for individual creativity.”
For tickets and more information on the VIBES student recital, visit the Palomar Performing Arts website.