For Demetrios Spanos Solesky, performing in front of a crowd isn’t something new.

Solesky and five other performers were able to showcase their talents at Hillel’s Mediterranean Nights Coffee House.

The event is Hillel’s first of the new semester.

We wanted to have a big welcome back event for the students. Also for recruitment,” Hillel president Matt Scher said.

“We were looking for new ways and taking inspiration from various aspects of Jewish culture and life. We came up with this fusion of American coffee house and Mediterranean culture.”

After hearing about the event from a friend, Solesky contacted Hillel about performing and was able to open the event with the song “You Don’t Know Me,” by Ben Folds

“I’ve done a couple things here at Towson, events for my church, talents shows, coffee shops,” Solesky said. “I’m trying to get a lot of experience through performing. Just having it under my belt really helps and makes a great experience.”

Performances ranged from rock to rap to classical.

Freshman music education major Gina DeGasperis was able to sing show tunes and play classical music for the event.

“My roommate told me about this, and I haven’t performed in awhile since I got here because of college stress, but I really wanted to perform,” DeGasperis said.

“I hope to gain more knowledge about Hillel and I’m really excited to perform for everyone.”

The night also allowed Hillel members to meet up after Winter Break to start planning for their next event.

“We do have large scale of opportunities to showcase other events,” Scher said.

“And we’re hoping that people make the connection not just with their friends, but by realizing that Towson Hillel is a resource that aims to help students make Jewish connections.”