Semarang – The Faculty of Social and Political Sciences (FISIP) of Diponegoro University (UNDIP) energized the Band Competition as part of the 67th Dies Natalis celebration, held at Prof. Sudarto, S.H. Building, UNDIP Tembalang Campus on Thursday (17/10).

The Band Competition featured 14 participants representing the lecturers and staff (education personnel) categories, along with 7 participants from the student category. The participants performed their best songs based on the theme  “Poverty Alleviation and Food Security” (“Pengentasan Kemiskinan dan Ketahanan Pangan”).

In his opening speech, UNDIP’s Rector, Prof. Dr. Suharnomo, S.E., M.Si., praised the Band Competition, which was being held for the first time at UNDIP. Prof. Suharnomo quoted Buya Hamka, as saying, “With religion, life becomes more directed, with knowledge, life becomes easier, and with art, life becomes more beautiful.”

Prof. Suharnomo also added a quote from Prof. Rhenald Kasali during the 67th Dies Natalis Scientific Oration, stating that in today’s era, one must consider work-life balance, meaning working diligently with maximum targets while still creating happy moments.

“Hopefully, this is the first event where the band competition performs excellently. Hopefully, next year it will be even more festive. Keep working hard and playing hard to maintain that work-life balance,” said Prof. Suharnomo.

In this event, You Want Know Band from FISIP UNDIP was the first performer in the band competition for the lecturer and staff (education personnel) category. The band was led by Umi Lestari (vocals), Sendhang (vocals), Lusia Astrika (vocals), Nur Agus Salim (vocals), Gerry Bramantyo (bass), M. Bayu Widagdo (keyboard), Widiarso (drums), and Junjung Sahala Tua Manik (recycled instruments).

You Want Know Band’s performance opened with a skit about a child telling their parents about her desire to attend university. Then, the band performed a song with the melody of “Pamer Bojo” by Didi Kempot, but with adjusted lyrics highlighting UNDIP’s excellence.

The theme of “Poverty Alleviation and Food Security” was reflected through props like vegetables and recycled instruments, such as bottles filled with rice. You Want Know Band performed wearing UNDIP’s signature Orange Campus uniform, consisting of white shirts, orange ties, and khaki bottoms.

The blend of dangdut music infused with a bit of rock and traditional Sinden singing entertained the audience present at the competition. You Want Know Band successfully kicked off the event. Additionally, the supporters from FISIP UNDIP in attendance further enlivened the competition atmosphere.

(Agne Yasa)