Having heard about the quasi-mythical Brengrass through the grapevine here at the GradPost, we thought it might be a good idea to find out the truth – call it cold, hard fact-digging … or a spotlight on an informal grad student organization, your call.
A little online sleuthing took me to the Brengrass Facebook page, where I found out that not only does Brengrass exist, but the group also has an upcoming show! Mark your calendars, because they are playing at Old Town Tavern in Old Town Goleta on Thursday (March 14) at 8 p.m.
Intrigued by the band and inspired by their upcoming concert date, I messaged the Facebook administrator and ended up getting in touch with a couple of Brengrass members, Jon Montgomery (second-year Master of Environmental Science and Management student at Bren School, Guitar and Mandolin) and Adam Kreger (first-year Environmental Science and Management student at Bren School, Vocals, Piano, and Guitar).
Jon and Adam had the kindness to tell me a little bit about the makeup and activity of the group, which I thought I would share with you.
GradPost: How and when was Brengrass formed?
John: "Though I’m not sure on the exact history, Brengrass was formed by Bren students several years back as a way for the students, passionate about environmental issues and making music, to come together and share both those passions. Brengrass has continued on since its conception and gone through a continuous rotation of lineups as students come and leave the Bren School.”
GP: Do you have a lot of member turnover?
J: “The Brengrass lineup is continually changing and rotating. Even within a single year we can have a variety of different lineups; it all depends on people’s interest and availability throughout the year. Usually each year the lineup remains relatively stable and the big turnover occurs as second-year MESM students graduate and a new class joins the Bren School. However, alumni and others in the Bren community are always welcome to join. This frequent turnover is actually really exciting; it brings a fresh new sound to Brengrass each year, so every time you see Brengrass perform it could be completely different.”
GP: Where do you think Brengrass fits in with your academic life and career? Is this related? An escape? A creative outlet? A release?
Adam: “For me Brengrass is a way to get together with great people, have fun, and contribute something creative to the community.”
J: “I think it’s a great escape as well. It's nice to take a step back from the graduate school work and play music with friends, even it’s only for a few hours each week.”
GP: How often – and where – do you play these days?
J: “Our shows vary by year and time of year, but we’ve been fortunate to have been part of some really great events the past year and we’re looking forward to our spring schedule as well. In all honesty, all of us love getting a chance to play music for our friends and family, so we jump on any opportunity that comes our way, whether that be a Bren School function [see the GradPost article on Bren School's 2012 Commencement, where Brengrass performed], an afternoon at a local winery, or a weekend throwdown at one of our favorite local bars. Typically, we try to schedule at least a few gigs each quarter to keep us on our feet.”
Brengrass performs at Bren School's Commencement ceremony in June 2012. Credit: Patricia Marroquin
GP: Can you say what defines Brengrass, what the group’s identity is centered around?
J: “Simply put, Brengrass is about having a good time and sharing music with each other and the whole community. It also provides a creative outlet for the students that may not be fulfilled in our academic studies.”
GP: What are some of the challenges facing Brengrass, what makes it difficult?
A: “Sometimes it gets hard getting organized with such a large group and varying levels of commitment. At the same time, it’s great to have a stress-free outlet for creative expression and so much interest, talent, and enthusiasm to draw from.”
J: “We try to make Brengrass a stress-free atmosphere; graduate school provides enough of that. Often the members have differing tastes in music, but almost always we are able to find common ground. Who doesn’t love The Beatles?”
GP: What do you want other grad students to know about the group?
J: “First off, Brengrass is a welcoming, open group and we like to include everyone and anyone who has an interest in being involved, regardless of musical abilities, so if you would like to be involved just talk to one of us at our next show. Secondly, finding an outlet for creative expression outside of our studies can be really helpful in all aspects of life and I highly encourage all students to find an outlet to help direct some of that passion and excess creativity. Lastly, if you’re looking for a lively musical group to brighten up your next local event, consider Brengrass!”
So, to recap, Brengrass is a group of grad students (and alumni and friends) who come together as a community through music in order to relax and to relieve some of the pressure of graduate student life. The band is open to those outside of the Bren School, with varying degrees of talent, so if you’re interested come out to the show this Thursday and talk to the band afterward. I’m sure you’ll find some common ground (hint: try The Beatles). See you Thursday, at 8 p.m., at Old Town Tavern.