The Westminster Music Service Cohort is doubling the number of performances each month to meet an increase in demand. Led by upperclassmen Asha Laskar, Zuri Quintero, Arnika Alikhani, and Lucas Liu, the co-curricular has developed a reputation for using music to build bridges with local organizations, from assisted living homes to shelters for people experiencing homelessness.
With a total of 50 members, 25 of whom actively perform, the group’s mission is clear: make a meaningful contribution through music. Several times a month, students visit various facilities to share everything from jazz and rock to classical and musical theater songs. According to Laskar, the co-curricular is hoping to soon expand to new venues, like The Works and the William Breman Jewish Home, in an effort to engage even broader audiences. Many of the current venues include retirement homes such as A.G. Rhodes and Campbell Stone, as well as Trinity Community Ministries, a home dedicated to assisting the homeless.
“In previous years we did gigs once a month but now we are ramping it up to twice,” said Laskar. “It’s been inspiring to see how many people want to participate, and the extra performances make it possible for us to reach more of the community.”
Laskar, who has played violin, acted in musicals, and studied classical Indian music, credits her grandmother with inspiring her to join. Laskar grew up surrounded by music, but when her grandmother developed Alzheimers, it was music that allowed them to connect with each other. After her grandmother passed away last year, Laskar felt a need to apply for a leadership role with the cohort and bring music to those who would appreciate it.
“Giving back through music has been invaluable to me. It’s helped me connect with people from every background and made a truly big difference in my life,” said Laskar.
That mission of outreach resonates powerfully with the group’s members. Many say they have discovered both a sense of purpose and passion for service through the group.
“It’s been an amazing opportunity,” said sophomore Isabel Gao. “We really come together to serve our communities in a unique but meaningful way.”
Students also say the cohort has given them a space to connect with and learn from musically talented peers.
Sophomore Leonardo Castro-Balbi says what he really appreciates is the bonds he has forged.
“I feel like the sense of community every time I go really changes me as a person and a musician. All the students that play are extremely talented— I’ve really enjoyed getting to spend time with them and learn from their technique and zeal for music,” said Castro-Balbi.
Additionally, Castro-Balbi says students often perform duets together, using the co-curricular as an opportunity to connect with other interested musicians in the Westminster community. The tight-knit community allows students to play any piece of music in any way they can dream of, with none of the judgment that is often associated with the musical world.
The cohort leaders hope that with expanded performances and fresh venues, more students will be encouraged to share their talents.
Liu, a lead who also performs regularly, offered a simple invitation: “Come to Music Service; You won’t regret it.”
As the schedule continues to grow and new audiences gather to listen, the Music Service Cohort continues to prove that a shared love of music can foster deeper connections— both on campus and in the wider Atlanta community.
Edited by Lucas Liu
