Ask Kevin Williams about the kind of music he loves to perform, and his answer is spoken like a true astrophysicist.

“I’m a tenor, so it’s definitely more the upper region of the male voice,” said Williams, who is majoring in astrophysics with a minor in music at San Bernardino Valley College.

It’s not so much that he is interested in being a singing astrophysicist, it’s just that his classical operatic side offers the creative relief he craves from some headier study on his way to an eventual doctorate.

Like Williams, multidisciplinary brainiacs with an aptitude for the arts will converge from all corners of the city to showcase their high-energy talent, but they will come away with so much more.

On Wednesday, October 4, the Wolverine Showcase will bring out top talent featuring dozens of musicians from local high schools from 11:00 a.m. until 4:00 p.m. The competition ends on a high note with the Battle of the Bands from 5:00-9:00 p.m. with official judges presiding. Both are held at the Greek Theater and the Quad area.

The winner, chosen from a long line of student and community bands, gets to headline for the Music Department’s Spring Show “Crescendo 2018.”

Williams, part of SBVC Associated Student Government where he serves as vice-president of programs, is the main coordinator for the event. He also expects to perform with the Valley College Choir and Theater Group.

This time around, he said there are multiple goals for the showcase. One is to incorporate as many departments and programs that want to spotlight their great performers. So far, invitations have gone out to 17 area high schools with many expected to bring their actors, bands and choirs, and artists of all genres.

Buses will bring them to campus, and Valley College will also showcase dancers, choir, theater, along with spoken word, but there is an added motivation. Getting students involved with performing and visual arts is one focus, but he also wants them excited about touring the campus and future recruitment possibilities.

From personal experience, Williams knew that San Bernardino Valley College was the place he wanted to attend, but he said he didn’t know what to do, or how to get there. Once at the college and working with Associated Students, he realized the importance of getting local high schoolers connected with SBVC program offerings.

Everyone loves entertainment, and with so many low income and disenfranchised students in the area, he feels performing arts is a great way to get them interested in higher education.

“They can get a good feel for our school, get exposed to college life, and hopefully get inspired to want to join us here on campus,” he said.