Fostering Community Through Music: Alternative Music Collective
By CICADA HILL
“I feel like it isn’t just about music, but rather about giving people the chance to be heard and to feel like they belong,” said Zachary Jones, the president of Seton Hill’s Alternative Music Collective [AMC].
Established in June 2024, Seton Hill’s AMC, a student-led organization, has become a prominent part of campus culture. From having a passion for the style and sound of music to hosting memorable events on and off campus, the AMC has brought students together in more ways than one.
Jones was one of the officers who helped found the club. “After noticing that there was a presence on campus for students to express or discuss alternative forms of music, we created the club as an outlet to share and encourage students to engage in alternative music-related activities,” Jones said.
As president, Jones takes on a number of leadership commitments. “My role is really about keeping the club organized and moving forward,” Jones said.
“I’m responsible for running our meetings, preparing agendas, and making sure all of our officers and members are on the same page. I also help coordinate events, like our open mics, and work closely with other cabinet members to make sure things like promotion, setup, and communication all run smoothly.”
The organization has hosted numerous events, some recurring and others stand-alone. Some of these events include: listening parties, DIY nights, panel discussions, cookouts with live music, and more. One of their recurring events is an open mic night, titled “Live At Steep,” which welcomes all talents and new voices. The club knew the impact they wanted to make and undoubtedly brought it to life.
“I love seeing students connect, whether it’s someone stepping on stage for the first time, or friends forming over a shared taste in music,” Jones said. “For me, it’s not just about the shows we put on, but about the friendships, collaborations, and confidence that grow out of them. That’s what makes AMC really special.”
Taedem Banichar, the creative director for the AMC, expressed much of the same passion for the events. “Events help promote the club as a whole, it publicizes my designs, our music, and overall image. Personally, I’m affected by events in the sense that I get to see the work I do for our club being used to draw in other students, even if they don’t join the club,” Banichar said.
As the creative director for the AMC, Banichar utilizes her artistic skills to spread awareness for the organization. “As the creative director I’m responsible for creating an overall visually compelling component of the club by creating logos and designs that get used for fliers, prints, and merchandise,”
Banichar said. “With the club only being in its second year, my role still has areas that need refining but for now I’m tasked with using art as a tool to elevate the message we promote: Coming together over music.”
“I have great confidence that these students are talented enough to go far within their respective industries and I love to see glimmers of that possibility every time I go to an open mic and hear my friends sing and play their hearts out,” Banichar stated.
The AMC holds a special place in not only its members’ hearts, but the community at large. “I think AMC brings something unique to Seton Hill’s campus. We create a space where students can share their creativity, step out of their comfort zones, and connect through music,” Jones said.
“Our open mics and events give people a break from the routine of classes and provide a place to just enjoy the moment, whether you’re performing or listening,” Jones said. “AMC also adds to the culture of campus life by encouraging collaboration between clubs, supporting student artists, and helping build a more vibrant, welcoming community.”
Find the AMC on Instagram @shu_amc for posts about their upcoming events!