From “Staying Alive” to “I Will Survive”, and from bell bottoms to platform shoes, the 1970s are taking over the orchestra hall Friday from 4:30-6:30 p.m. for this year’s Disco Social.
“This is our second year doing this,” Orchestra Director Julie Blackstock said. “I hope it’s a way to make new friends–we just create a fun playlist, turn off the lights, and dance!”
Preparation for this event is mainly led by the Orchestra Presidential team, encouraging students to interact with one another beyond the class and in a social aspect.
“The Disco Social is a social we made brand new entirely last year,” Orchestra President, senior Callie Yim said. “It’ll be after our UIL evaluations, so it’ll be a great time for everyone to de-stress and genuinely have fun!”
Socials are designed to foster positive relationships among members of the orchestra, allowing for stronger connections both emotionally and musically.
“The socials are a great opportunity to hang out with friends or people that I wouldn’t normally see at school,” Orchestra Publicist, sophomore Rebecca Feng said. ”These events help build stronger connections within the orchestra. When people feel comfortable around each other, it shows in rehearsals and performances.”
For Orchestra Publicist, sophomore Aditri Pandey, socials, including the Disco Social, allow for a much needed break.
“Socials are important to me because they give me a break from orchestra and playing and they’re more just for fun and to relax,” Pandey said. “My favorite part of the Disco Social is being able to connect and talk to people from other orchestras that I don’t necessarily see on a daily basis.”
Beyond the social aspect, there is a more sentimental side to these socials for Yim.
“As a senior who has participated in orchestra all four years of high school, I saw myself grow as both a musician and as a general person because of the social interactions offered to me in socials,” Yim said. “Knowing other people more personally through socials goes beyond class instruction.”
Events, like the Disco Social, allow for members of the orchestra to appreciate the bonds they have built through their music.
“Orchestra isn’t only about making music but also about having fun as a group,” Feng said. “Socials help me realize how special the orchestra community is.”
