Serendipity Music Series

ABOUT THE SERENDIPITY MUSIC SERIES

The ongoing Serendipity Music Series in the Centennial Student Union at Minnesota State University, Mankato, offers free mid-week, mid-day performances for the campus and Mankato area community that spotlight Minnesota musicians with "street-corner serenade" style performances. Passers-by can stop to listen or bring their lunch and enjoy some of Minnesota's finest musicians. The performances during fall and spring semesters are sponsored by the Centennial Student Union.

UPCOMING PERFORMANCES

FAT CITY ALL STARS: Regional Favorite Cover Band!

Welcome Week

FRIDAY, AUGUST 22, 2025 • MSU Bell Tower Plaza

11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. 

One of the region's top cover bands, Fat City All Stars is a Serendipity Music Series favorite. This rockin' 6-member band makes a special Welcome Week stop to help greet new Mavericks during the annual Backyard Bash. Expect high-energy, non-stop music on the outdoor stage from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.

Watch This FAT CITY ALL STARS Promo Video

MISSISSIPPI HOT CLUB: Get Swept Up in La Pompe!

CSU Mall Fest & RSO Involvement Fair

WEDNESDAY, September 3, 2025 • MSU Campus Mall 

La Pompe /​la pɔ̃p​/ Pronounced: lah POMP
A signature rhythm guitar technique the guitarist mimics the sound of a drum kit, laying down a relentless, pulsing groove that propels the entire band.

Mississippi Hot Club showcases the distinct French Gypsy Jazz style of music pioneered during the 1930s-1940s in Paris, France. This all-string jazz ensemble features la pompe rhythm guitar,  upright bass, and the lively improvisation of a solo guitar and violin. Staying true to the 1930s hot club sound, MHC also adds a healthy spread of modern twists. It's the perfect background music as you check out student organizations, visit the petting zoo or get a free hot dog during the annual fall CSU Mall Fest and RSO Involvement Fair. 

Watch the Mississippi Hot Club in action

“Over the past five years, this quartet has become one of the Midwest’s preeminent string bands. Originally an homage to French Gypsy Jazz, the quartet’s music has begun to take on a more eclectic, adventurous persona as other influences have crept into the palette.” - Twin Cities Jazz Fest