The Beatles met Taylor Swift met Rebecca Black at the first Coffeehouse Oct. 7 in the Whittier Woods auditorium.

At Coffeehouse, student bands play original and cover songs for thirty-minute sets. At the door, tickets are $5, which goes towards Communities Helping in Music Education, a group that donates money to inner-city school music programs.

Acts included bands like Lockhouse 8, Tortoise and the Bear, Seani and the Block Party Gang. Anyone who wants to play for the event is given the chance. Many student musicians enjoy playing for their friends and gaining exposure for their musical talents.

“Playing was really stressful but exciting,” said freshman Lex Payne, part of the Block Party Gang. “It was a lot of fun.”

Though Coffeehouse took place at the River Road Unitarian Universalist Church last year, its new home is the WAUD. The smaller venue allowed for a more intimate atmosphere.

“We have access to the lights, so there’s more freedom,” said senior Aaron Ammerman, drummer for Tortoise and the Bear. “Also, the venue is smaller, so it’s more intimate. There’s more of a typical small concert feel.”

The increased access to the light and sound equipment is important for the student technicians who operate behind the scenes.

“I know more about the equipment in the WAUD,” senior Brian Clarkson said. “There’s more lenience about what we’re capable of doing tech-wise.”

But the WAUD’s smaller environment presents its own challenges, despite the extra freedom.

“I prefer the church,” sophomore Maisy Deans said. “It’s a lot more of an open environment. This is a little too cramped.”

Regardless of the venue, Coffeehouse is a great way to watch student musicians and get inspired to play.

“People might see you and begin to start their own band,” Ammerman said. “Playing with your friends is really exciting.”

The next Coffeehouse is Nov. 11 in the Whittier Woods Auditorium.