Perch Perfect is back, our new live concert series that brings together current and former Pioneers with a passion for music and performance. From Jazz to Nordic Folk, to Hip Hop and beyond, we are proud to share the passion of our East Bay community!This time we welcome Gabriel Valencia, a first-year communications major. Taking up music after the pandemic, Valencia is a self-taught accordion player. Taking a page from the likes of El Tigre del Norte and Edgardo Nuñez, Valencia will play songs inspired by centuries of Mexican folk music.You can check out some of his music and other channels here: https://linktr.ee/CHEWYYY07?utm_source=linktree_profile_share&ltsid=6004d09f-63ac-4952-8bb3-1a4fb7b211fcAre you interested in being a part of Perch Perfect or know someone who would? Send us a message and become part of the action!

Check out the first episode of East Bay's new music series: Perch Perfect!Listen to Gremnir's newest album, Maðr Er Manns Gaman, here: https://gremnir.bandcamp.com/album/ma-r-er-manns-gamanHosting the Pioneers of past and present, through live performances. This includes faculty and students who have called East Bay home since 1957.Featuring Pioneer performers of past and present, we spoke with Gremnir (Music Composition, 2016), Nordic Folk musician and studio artist, about his musical journey to kick off this new series. Performing music based on Old Norse poetry, Gremnir takes us through the stories and wisdom of Odin, the principal god of Norse mythology and shows how no matter the period, there is still inspiration in older ways of life.Stay tuned for new episodes, our reach out on social media, and in our comments to be the next Perch Perfect guest!

August 2025

Cal State East Bay Karrington Hendrix is a 2025 Marshall Scholar.