Countless students have been a part of the Ledyard High music family for years. From reunions to musicals, many opportunities to perform have always been available for students. Four juniors have done just that, but outside of the school walls. Juniors Molly Barnett, Tricia Tolles,

Olivia Triplett, and Morgan Wicken all performed at the Nightingales Acoustic Café on April 3rd.

For Tolles, singing has been a part of her life since her younger days. “I’ve been singing for as long as I remember,” Tolles said. “But I first started in a chorus in 6th grade, and that is what really got me into it.”

Transitioning from an open stage to an intimate café was something Tolles did not have an issue with. “It was a much smaller area than I was used to, but that made it feel really personal, which I liked,” Tolles said.

Nightingales Café, in Old Lyme, is known for independent musical performances and for its youth workshops. While listening to the music, one can purchase baked goods and coffee. The small café allowed Barnett and her friends to play a set one night, and the girls agreed to the occasion.

“I went to a little song writing workshop at the café, and I was playing their piano, so then the owner asked me if I’d play one or two sets on a Friday night,” Barnett said. “They are trying to encourage young performers.”

Breaking away from the high school scene was something Barnett did not mind. “Singing with friends is a lot more fun, and allows for harmonies and more instruments,” Barnett said. “ Performing was a lot of fun; it was pretty chill and a lot of the people there knew us, so we had a great time sharing our songs and our passion for music.”

The night was something for this girl band, armed with an electric guitar, drums, and a ukulele, to remember. Keep an eye out for their next show.

Megan Brawner, Sports Editor

Junior Megan Brawner is Sports Editor for the 2014-2015 “Colonel”. She serves as Secretary for the Junior Class, is a lead runner on the track and cross country teams, and takes pictures for “Inner Visions” and “Teen Ink”.