Princeton Student Banned From Firestone After Discovering Passion for Opera at POCO Concert

By Yara Almoussa '28

A few weeks ago, Barry Tone ‘29 went to the POCO/Sinfonia concert in Richardson with a group of friends. Today, he is banned from ever setting foot in Firestone Library ever again. Amidst a sea of students drowning in Sunday Scaries and JP/thesis deadlines, a high pitched noise, described as something between a “screech” and a “yowl” erupted in the Firestone C level stairwell. This was followed by what sounded like a shatter of glass. Moments later, PSAFE rushed onto the scene, expecting an injury or an imminent threat, only to find Barry Tone with a box of wine glasses that he stole from the Nassoon’s rehearsal room in order to prove that his high notes could shatter glass, “as seen in the movies” according to him. When questioned by TigerMag, Barry Tone said, “I was so moved by POCO’s Sinfonia concert, and I felt the spirit of Puccini, Mozart, and dare I say, even Verdi, overtake me. I had no choice but to rehearse in the location on campus with the best acoustics I could think of - the Firestone C Level Stairwell.” When informed of the Woolworth Center for Musical Studies and Effron Music Building, Barry Tone rejected the suggestions, claiming that “real opera knows no systemic barriers, and it rises within the most unconventional and authentic locations. Firestone C Level is a place of pain, trial, and tribulation, and thus it evokes the raw human emotions necessary for opera.” It is noted that Barry Tone has never performed opera before, nor has he had any musical training in his life. Library-goers commented on Barry Tone’s performance. Susie Harper ‘28 said that she “thought it was an arch sing in Firestone or something.” Librarian Reed Buks told TigerMag “I thought it was the band performing in Firestone again, but this was significantly less annoying so I knew it was someone else.” POCO will be performing Puccini’s Gianni Schicchi on Friday, March 27 and Saturday, March 28 in Richardson Auditorium. Anonymous interviewees commented that although they are excited for what appears to be a riveting and lovely performance, they are unanimously terrified about the resurgence of Barry Tone’s arias. Regardless, TigerMag will be in attendance at the POCO concert just in case Barry Tone runs on stage to showcase his newfound passion. POCO refused to comment, stating (via pen and paper) that they are on vocal rest ahead of their big show. Editor's Note: Despite self-identifying as a Soprano, Barry Tone requested that TigerMag use his full name in this article as it “best exemplifies [his] newfound identity as a Baritone.” It is unclear if Barry Tone understands the difference between vocal ranges.