Temple University has many unique clubs across campus, ranging from chess clubs to dance clubs to multicultural and a cappella clubs. However, there is a new club at Temple where women can grow, network, and teach the importance of women in the music industry: Women In Music.
Women In Music is a non-profit organization that has grown to encompass 25+ chapters worldwide, including a new one at Temple. Having recently started the Temple branch, the board members are incredibly excited to expand the club.
Madeleine Veras, a sophomore audio live and entertainment major, is the president of the club and also the founder of the Temple branch. Veras saw an opportunity to create a welcoming environment for women who wanted to grow their passions in Philadelphia and potentially expand beyond the city.
“I saw a lack of space for women, in general, for the music industry and at Temple,” said Veras. “I went on a study abroad trip to Nashville, and the community that was there was really nice, and I wanted to bring that feeling back here.”
While this chapter of Women in Music is one of three subdivisions in Philadelphia, it is the first at Temple. Members of the Temple chapter are now able to take advantage of this vast network and the opportunities.
“There are a lot of professionals who are willing to collaborate with us and give talks about how the industry works,” Veras said. “Networking is a big part of our club and what we want to give to members.”
Renee Vargas, a freshman audio and live entertainment major, believes that because this club is so unique, anyone who has a strong passion and desire for music should be part of it.
“I strongly encourage anyone interested in music or a music industry-related profession to join our club,” Vargas said. “It’s a great networking opportunity, and we host a variety of events and activities for people to gain more experience, and the environment is like none other.”
This supportive environment is something that Veras is very appreciative of. She, along with everyone on the e-board, believes that women need to uplift and highlight each other in such a male-dominated field, despite the increase in women singers and songwriters.
“I wouldn’t have had my successes in my college experience so far if it weren’t for the women who have supported me, and I want to support other women like I have been supported,” Veras said.
Members of the e-board like to have a theme for each of their meetings, such as the Hispanic Heritage Mixer, which honored and highlighted Latina culture in music. They also like to collaborate with other clubs, including Temple’s Music Business Club, GrammyU, and the other WIM subdivision at Drexel University.
When members of the group and the e-board have an event coming up that is music-related, they are encouraged to promote it so they can support each other. Meetings happen bi-weekly, with the time varying depending on the kind of discussion/panel that is happening. Everyone who has a passion for music is encouraged to join and work with others who have that same passion.
Women in Music hopes that students will take this opportunity to grow and brand themselves alongside others who want to do the same.