Delicious bytes and beats

Three times a week, Colby Anderson, an 18-year-old senior computer engineering major at Wright State University, eats his lunch at the Student Union Market and then sits down at a Kawai grand piano and entertains diners with beautiful music that has become the lunchroom’s soundtrack all year.

Anderson, who began taking College Credit Plus courses at Wright State when he was just 14 years old, said that while he loves computer engineering, playing the piano provides a much-needed creative outlet.

“It allows me to express what I’m feeling that day,” he said.

“One of the songs he plays that’s my favorite is ‘Claire de lune,’” said Christof Archer, a sophomore computer science major who often sits in the Dixon Hearth Lounge, where the piano is located. “It’s a pretty famous classical piece, and he plays it with a lot of emotion.”

Anderson began expressing himself on the piano when he was 6. His early lessons included public performances, so he’s always been comfortable playing in front of others.

“It’s a great way to connect with people, and I feel like I’ve met my crowd here,” said Anderson.

Anderson said sometimes other piano players will stop by to compliment his playing or give him a pat on the back, but most patrons are engaged in conversations and may not notice the music.

“It’s really good,” said Logan Sliger, a senior history major. “Even if I’m not paying attention directly, it’s always nice to have it in the background.”

Anderson will graduate from Wright State with a bachelor’s degree in computer engineering on May 3 and has secured a job near the Dayton Campus at Booz Allen Hamilton.

“It’s going to be sad without him playing the piano, but he’s on to bigger and better things,” said Jedd Rismiller, an admissions recruiter who visits the Student Union Market.

Since his new office is close to campus, Anderson said he hopes to visit campus often and would love to play the piano again.

“It’s probably going to be very nostalgic for me,” he said.