Pianos were blazing in the Nebraskan Student Union last week during a high-energy, interactive dueling pianos show. The Dueling Piano Guys, hosted by Loper Programming and Activities Council, brought students together for a night of musical entertainment, comedy and audience participation.
Ayden Brophy, a junior majoring in biology education 7-12 and LPAC concert co-chair, said dueling pianos stood out as a fun event after gaining popularity on other campuses.
“It was something that we had seen around social media and that other campuses were kind of picking up more often,” Brophy said. “We thought a high-energy event would be awesome, especially before spring break. It was something that we thought looked really cool, and we wanted our campus to experience.”
The interactive show allowed students to request songs, leading to a diverse lineup.
“With all the different student suggestions that we were able to put into the show, it really made it unique to our campus,” Brophy said. “The variety of music suggestions that we had was really something else. We went all the way back to Scott Joplin and then all the way forward to Chappell Roan with the ‘Pink Pony Club.’ That one was super fun, with the disco cowboy hat.”
Some audience members even took the stage. Megan Konz, a freshman majoring in music education, jumped at the opportunity.
“My favorite part had to be when they played ‘Low Rider’ by War and had some cowbells up there,” Konz said. “I immediately went for it because I’m a percussionist, and I had so much fun playing that song.”
Like many who’ve never experienced dueling pianos, Alexys Kersenbrock, UNK alumna, was pleasantly surprised by her experience.
“My favorite moment was when they played ‘Pink Pony Club,’” Kersenbrock said. “The crowd’s responses and engagement with song requests made it a fun and engaging event.”
Students were able to use the event as a stress reliever in between juggling exams and coursework. Brophy said the importance of holding events like this on campus, not just high-energy performances, but also smaller activities, helps students unwind.
“It helps students remember that they’re still people, not just machines working on their homework all the time,” Brophy said. “It’s very important, especially to me, that everybody’s mental health is well taken care of. Being able to relax with friends and enjoy yourself, even if it’s just for one evening, immensely helps.”
Brophy said he hoped that every audience member felt connected and was able to relax for a night of fun.
LPAC hosts events like this to promote community involvement and provide students with entertainment.
“I think events like this are great for students because it gets us involved,” Konz said. “Attending college is really expensive and puts a strain on your budget, so having free events like this at the school really helps.”
Energized by the night’s entertainment, students said they’re eager for more live music and interactive events.
