A former student of Grand Rapids Community College will perform at GRCC’s Alumni Voice Recital on Saturday.
Brysien Beer, now attending Michigan State University, studied vocal music at GRCC from 2008 to 2011. While at GRCC, Beer sang in Shades of Blue, the college’s vocal jazz ensemble.
“I’m here (at MSU) on a full scholarship,” said Beer, “and it’s only because of the training I got at GRCC.”
Since leaving GRCC, Beers has traveled to Italy and China to further his studies of music and language as part of study abroad programs.
“I was in a town named Todi(Italy) for about a month,” said Beer, “Every week we presented another concert.”
He will be accompanied by John Wustman, professor emeritus of University of Illinois, and native of Byron Center. According to Beer, music history classes at MSU will sometimes feature Wustman’s work.
“He’s performed with, and coached, the best singers of the 20th century,” Beers said.
Beers said he’s coming back to GRCC to perform and help showcase the kind of talent that comes out of GRCC.
“It’s not about me… I’m not the only one,” he said.
The recital will take place at 2 p.m. on Saturday in GRCC’s Music Center recital hall. Admission is $5.
