Montclair State University Presents Sunset Social as Part of Family Weekend
Written by Ash Schnoor on April 22, 2026
Montclair, NJ — Montclair State University will host Sunset Social, a live outdoor music event celebrating student talent, as part of Family Weekend programming, free for all students. The event is presented by WMSC Radio in collaboration with Campus Recreation, Student Communications & Red Hawk Life, and the John J. Cali School of Music’s Music and Recording Arts program.
Held on the Student Center Quad, Sunset Social will showcase student bands performing a mix of original music and covers in a free, high-energy concert open to all Montclair State students.
The event is produced collaboratively by WMSC Radio, Campus Recreation, and Student Communications & Red Hawk Life, with support from the Student Center and EATS by Gourmet Dining. In addition to celebrating the close of the spring semester, Sunset Social provides students with hands-on, real-world experience in live event production, audio engineering, and multimedia coverage.
“Sunset Social gives our campus community a chance to experience live music entirely produced by students”, said professor Anabella Poland, who designed and taught this semester’s Concert Production & Promotions course. “It is exciting not just because of the music performances, but because of the level of professionalism happening behind the scenes.”
Running from 6:30-8:30 p.m., all performances will take place in the Student Center Ballrooms. The confirmed lineup includes:
- Alba Says
- Chasing Stars
- Groove Pool Collective
- Marauder
“Of all the events that Campus Recreation executes throughout the year, it’s always greatest when we can showcase student talent” said Assistant Director Tzu-Lin Toner. “We had a dream to have student bands perform on campus, but it really was the WMSC Radio Station and Recording Arts & Production that made this come alive and Famiy Weekend that gave us the venue. Thank you!”
Admission and food are free for all Montclair State University students, and included with families’ weekend admission.
About the Sunset Social
The event will include full professional sound mixing, led by Shane Furst and the Recording Arts program. Led by executive producer Ash Schnoor, WMSC Radio will be providing multimedia coverage of the event.
About the Artists
Grove Pool Collective
Groove Pool Collective combines the essence of old school blues, Funk, and soul with the energy of rock and pop. What sets them apart from all the old heads is that modern sparkle that remains a staple of their unique sound.
Chasing Stars
Chasing Stars is a 4-piece NJ rock and roll band with Southern Rock and Blues Rock influences. Known for catchy hooks, well-crafted songs, masterful instrumentation, and relentless energy, the band’s live set and recorded music are unmatched.
Alba Sazz
Alba Sazz is a Spanish singer-songwriter whose music blends pop rock influences with a fresh, contemporary edge. Drawing from melodic songwriting and emotionally driven lyrics. Currently at the beginning of her musical journey, Alba has already released two singles, with a third on the way, marking her steady rise as an emerging artist to watch.
Marauder
Marauder is a local indie rock act known for high-energy performances and emotionally driven songwriting. Blending dynamic instrumentation with punchy melodies, the band’s live sets balance intensity with moments of reflection.
About WMSC 90.3 FM
WMSC is Montclair State University’s student-operated radio station, broadcasting on 90.3 FM and online at wmscradio.com. The station offers a diverse mix of music, talk, sports, and news programming, providing students with hands-on experience in broadcast media, journalism, and Production.
About the Campus Recreation
The Department of Campus Recreation provides exceptional recreational facilities, programs and services to Montclair State University’s students, faculty, staff and alumni. Besides the student-run Student Recreation Center, the department oversees an array of student-led programs from group exercise classes, personal training, intramural and club sports, swim lessons, outdoor adventures, equipment lending, special events and more to enhance the collegiate experience and build community.
About the Recording Arts & Production Program
The recording Arts & Production program explores the art and science of music through courses in Music Recording, Digital Audio Production and Songwriting, developing a strong foundation in both technical ability and creative expression. You’ll also dive into Sound Design for Film and Television, Gaming, Foley Sounds FX, and advanced production techniques, expanding your expertise across multiple areas of the field.
About Student Communications & Red Hawk Life
Student Communications & Red Hawk Life is more than a communications team. The office connects students and their families to the Montclair experience through timely email communications like Red Hawk News, University updates from Montclair Administration and messages from campus partners including Commuter Life, Residence Life and more. In addition, the team promotes campus events and highlights student life through social media while managing Montclair’s mascots Rocky and Roxy and the pupscot, Pebbles, bringing Red Hawk spirit to life across campus. With an additional focus on Red Hawk families, the team leads dedicated communications and signature programming like Family Weekend, helping families stay informed, involved and connected to their student’s community. Have questions, comments, or press inquiries? Contact executive producer Ash Schnoor: web@wmscradio.com or (929) 333-4785
