By: Heather Martin
12/4/2003

Providing a casual, come-and-go form of entertainment, Chris Cassidy has been performing on guitar and vocals Tuesday evenings this semester in Casado Campus Center.

Cassidy, a senior at Friends University, performs from 7 to 9 p.m. in the lower level of Casado. Students come to enjoy a variety of music, relax, do homework, play pool and visit the snack bar.

 “He steps up and does a performance every Tuesday,” freshman Marrque’ Nunley said. “That takes guts.” 

Many of Cassidy’s songs are covers of John Mayer. Cassidy also performs Christian music he composed, hymns and renditions of songs that he has made his own by using his own chords and rhythms.

“He connects with the crowd and makes you feel at home,” said Nathan Ross, a friend of Cassidy’s.

For the past two years, Cassidy has been doing gigs for worship teams and helps lead worship services.

Cassidy wants to continue his career in music.

“I want to go all the way in the music business,” Cassidy said. “My goal is to be a Christian in the secular atmosphere.”

Last year, Cassidy contacted local coffeehouses, bars, clubs and restaurants to see if new entertainment was needed, but all entertainment for the year had been booked.

He became interested in music at a young age and remembers watching the Grand Ole Opry with his grandpa. Cassidy started playing the violin in the fourth grade and the guitar at age 16.

Cassidy’s first yearning for the stage came his freshman year of high school. Cassidy improved his vocal and guitar skills by staying active in different worship groups and was the worship leader of a Bible Study Club.

Friends offered Cassidy his first solo gig, and he saw it as a chance to further his musical abilities.

His performances might continue in the spring semester, so look for posters around campus promoting his act.