Michael Simmons ’13 Winter Guitar Show

The Michael Simmons ’13 Winter Guitar Show took place in the Seaverns Performing Arts Center on January 28. The guitar shows are named in memory of Michael, who shined in them during his years as a Suffield student. Fifteen students performed in this winter event, showcasing their talents on the stage for peers, families, and friends. 

Sophia Kim ’23 said, “It was an invigorating show not only for the audience but also for the crew! I will always cherish the moment my friends and I danced to “Surfin’ USA” as we moved across the stage in line. When the audience clapped along with our last song “Hey Jude” I felt a sense of appreciation for good music connecting all of us. This was my first guitar show at Suffield, and I can’t wait for the spring show!”

Ella Slate ’24 said, “It was a great experience to play some fun songs with other musicians. Thank you to Mr. Gotwals and Jeff Giglio for setting this up for us, and thank you to everyone who came out to support!”

Faculty member and Brad Gooch Music Chair Tom Gotwals said, “As always, the students relied on their native musical abilities (which run pretty deep) to pull the show together. Two items of particular interest: the group was 13 girls and 2 boys including many newcomers, and, for the first time as far as I know, the group included a violinist (Sophia Kim)!”