This month comes down to signaling preparation and transformation. The MACES music department begins its annual tradition of turning rehearsal rooms into sanctuaries of sound. Cellos hum, violins breathe life into tightened bowstrings, and flutes whistle as the freeze of winter overtakes the last traces of heat. We shiver before getting out of bed, wrapping ourselves tighter as the season settles in. Winter usually slows everything down.
Or so you’d think. This feature takes a closer look at how this year’s Winter Orchestra Showcase keeps its traditions alive—and what those efforts mean to the people who gather around it year after year.
For years, the Winter Orchestra Showcase has been one of the school’s most anticipated events. What began as a small recital has become a standing-room-only celebration where every seat is taken and every listener is pulled into the warmth of holiday music. It’s more than a performance—it’s a reflection of dedication, talent, and the toughness of the MACES music community. Music director Ms. Rincon knows exactly how much work fuels that magic.
“Students did very well at the concert, and it’s always so fun to see their growth—their nerves, and then them pushing through the nerves,” she said. “What’s particularly special about our concerts is that they are all student-run. Everything from the marketing materials to the program to the MC notes is created by students. It allows them to grow not only as musicians, but as leaders,” And that leadership is felt deeply by the students themselves.
Cassandra Aranda Gutierrez, a Sophomore violinist, who moved from second violin to first, said the showcase shaped her in ways she didn’t expect. “Why not continue and see how it goes, you know? What’s the worst that can happen?” she said with a shrug. She explained there’s no cutting corners in this art form. “There’s no cheat code in music. You can’t fake it—you either know what you’re doing, or you don’t,” said Aranda. The “ No cheat code” explains the discipline and seriousness the showcase demanded. As a section leader, Cassandra had to guide newer players—a responsibility that felt intimidating at first.
“There were times people beside me had questions, and I felt like I didn’t want to let them down. I had to make sure I knew what they needed help with. But it helped me be more prepared,” She also pointed out how easy it is for outsiders to overlook the effort behind the elegance. “People underestimate how much time it actually takes to put everything together. You can’t procrastinate because that just messes everything else up.” Four years in the orchestra have given her more than musicianship—they’ve given her friendships, confidence, and the belief that no one plays alone. “Yes, you can play individually, but how can you incorporate that with everybody else? You have the support of the whole section. It just takes practice, over and over—sometimes a million times—for one tricky part.” said Aranda.
Another four-year member, violin section leader Juan Dueñas, who is a Sophomore, described the showcase as a lesson in responsibility—and community. “Nobody will judge you, and they will always support you,” he said. “We’re in it together.” This performance felt different for him because it came with new expectations. “I had more of a leadership role, and I was new to being a leader. I had to make sure I looked good in front of my section. I wanted to be a perfect role model,” said Dueñas. Even with experience, nerves never fully disappear.
“No matter the person, they’re always gonna be nervous for the concert, no matter how long you’ve been in it. But you can’t let that get to you.”You have to be confident,” said Dueñas. He explained that people who don’t play instruments don’t always realize how mentally demanding performing is.
“You have to count in your head, stay in sync with Ms. Rincon, and think about all these things at the same time. People think we’re playing basic notes, but we’re not. Most mistakes aren’t even noticeable to the audience,” Still, the process is full of joy.
“A big highlight is the funny environment—the funny orchestra,” he laughed. “Back in middle school, my friends and I would say, “This is gonna be cool, we’re 8th graders hanging with high schoolers!”
Violinist Scarlett Rivas, a Junior grader, shares a similar understanding of the discipline behind the music.“You have to know your music—you can’t escape it,” she said. “People don’t understand that it’s something you can’t cheat on,” Her friends have helped her slow down, find mistakes, and build confidence. She hopes to grow stronger in trusting herself and her playing. The showcase isn’t just a performance—it’s a student-led project. Ms. Rincon emphasizes the real-world value of these responsibilities. “They practice necessary life skills to excel after high school,” she explained. When it was raining, the Students protected their instruments, rehearsed despite how cold and wet it was, and to make sure no drop of water ruins’ the instruments’ tunes. Their dedication forms the heartbeat of the showcase. And the love they have for music doesn’t end when the concert does. Scarlett, Juan, and Cassandra say that they’ll continue playing even after high school—not necessarily as a career, but as a passion they’ll carry with them. They’ll see it as a hobby, something that keeps them grounded so they never lose the feeling that the orchestra gave them. In the middle of winter, where The Winter Orchestra Showcase offers something rare. By drawing neighbors, families, friends and School staff, into the same room. A moment to gather, to listen, and to witness something created entirely by students who give not only their time, but their hearts.
Even as winter settles in, creativity, tradition, and connection continue to thrive—bow by bow, note by note, year after year, the musicians return to rehearse and perform for the community.
