Sisterhood through music

Giving is something we naturally do as Mustangs, but we do not always get to see the impact we have on the Hilltop when we come together.

SMU Belle Tones was one of the organizations greatly impacted by SMU Giving Day 2022. Belle Tones is the premier all-female a cappella group on campus. These girls are from various musical backgrounds and majors, but the one thing they all love is singing together. Most of their arrangements are created by the Belles themselves, and this year, they even have some original songs. The Belles love to sing at campus-wide events, from the Celebration of Lights to commons events. They are also hired by outside sources and SMU alumni.

The money you gave in 2022 will allow the Belle Tones to do things like record their third album.

“We are extremely grateful for the opportunity to record ten songs which will be released in the spring of next year. The money is being used to pay for copyrights, a music video shoot and Belle uniforms. This album would not be possible without the generosity of the SMU community,” says Regina Romero-Garza ’24, Belle Tones business manager.

Giving opens new doors for groups like the Belle Tones. Groups can set goals that would have otherwise been out of reach, but with your support anything is possible.

“There is no way we could have recorded our album without these funds. Producing an album takes a lot of work, money and teamwork. It also gives our girls experience, from recording time to marketing strategies,” says Romero-Garza.

As Mustangs, we must remember why we give. Although we have physically left the Hilltop, it will always be a place we once called home. Whether you found your voice here, made lifelong friends or were given the resources to start your own business, the Hilltop has impacted you in some way, and it is doing the same for Mustangs on campus today.

“I speak for every Belle when I say this organization has been the most supportive and impactful home I have found on campus."

"Every girl is rooting for your success, not only musically, but academically and spiritually. The basis of Belles is friendship, and we exemplify that in rehearsals and performances. Music is my safe space and with the other girls feeling the same way, all that we sing is with love and friendship in the center. Belles has helped me navigate campus as a freshman and continues to show me its continuous support,” says Romero-Garza.

Giving changes lives, as seen with the Belle Tones. The impact you made will allow them to create an album that will impact the lives of others for years to come. The Belle Tones are participating in multiple competitions in 2023 to help promote their brand and music as they represent us all as Mustangs. 

For next year’s giving day, the Belle Tones are looking forward to raising money for women who want to build friendships and impact others through singing.