Seventy-one years ago, UCLA’s “oldest and greatest musical tradition” was born.
The first ever Spring Sing only comprised of UCLA Greek life in eight female and seven male singing-teams competing for two trophy cups. The groups performed in the event to build a larger community and serenade their Greek counterparts.
“Should the same organization win the contest for three consecutive years, that group will remain the permanent possession of the trophy,” said Jack Porter, Spring Sing co-chair, according to The Bruin in 1945.
The very first Spring Sing’s program was much more varied, even featuring the election results for the undergraduate student body government of that year. But a few things were also missing, including Company – the group of student comedians who introduce the acts – and celebrity judges.
The panel of judges in 1945 included Dr. Raymond E. Moremen, assistant professor of music, Adaline Guenther, executive secretary of the University Religious Conference, Joe Valentine, Bob Campbell and Walter Toole, a Westwood businessman.
Interested teams were only allowed to enter a minimum of 10 and maximum of 30 participants, all of the same gender. They also needed to submit an application and a $2 entry fee, unless they were affiliated with the university’s music department.
The event culminated at the top of Janss Steps with presentations of the two trophies to Pi Beta Phi sorority and Alpha Tau Omega fraternity and a dance party to “popular records” at the 1945 Spring Sing, according to The Bruin.
The event has professionalized over the years, growing out of its small committee of two co-chairpersons into an executive committee of about 15 members under the UCLA Student Alumni Association. Spring Sing’s program has also become much more specified to showcase students’ talents.
Now in 2016, several acts performed by soloists, duets, a cappella groups, bands and comedy acts will showcase their talents and can compete for seven awards.
Today’s interested performers must submit an application with a fee ranging from $10 to $60, and must also audition in front of Spring Sing’s executive members. On Saturday night, this year’s performers will culminate into stardom after five months from submitting an application, a difference from the week of rehearsals for the 1945 showcase.
Spring Sing has grown and developed since its birth, meaning it has only gotten better. Students who don’t attend the show miss out on being a part of something larger than one evening’s entertainment. This UCLA tradition is a must-see campus event and is the stopping point for spotting the university’s highest caliber of musical talent.