C Magazine Vol. 12 Edition 3

•1

C MAGAZINE February 2024 • Volume 12 Issue 3 Dear readers, Welcome to C Magazine’s first issue of 2024! We could not be more excited to be starting another year of amazing student journalism. Each new year is bound to be filled with creative trends and original ideas, but we hope C Magazine will remain a classic throughout.

Leading off our first issue of the year is “Faces of the Moon’’ by Arjun Bharat, Abbie Karel and Sarah Sheaffer on page 6. Diving into various cultural connections to the moon and celestial cycle, Paly’s diverse student body shares stories about how their respective ethnic and religious cultures’ have portrayed the moon.

As trends and fashion constantly shift, finding sustainable ways to consume is important for our environmental future.

“Threads of Change” on page 10 by Talia Boneh, Disha Manayilakath and Sophia Zhang inspects the economical outlook on fast fashion and unethical consumption.

This issue’s cover story, “Death of Print” on page 17, by Dylan Berger, Gin Williams and Saachi Nagar uncovers how physical newspapers and printed media are slowly leaving the market. Touching on the economic and environmental impacts, this story covers the pros and cons of printing for future generations.

Paly theatre’s hard-working costume design team has consistently been an integral part of productions for years.

“Behind the Seams” on page 25, by Lily Jefferey, Sonya Kuzmicheva and Katelyn Pegg shines light on the intricate

process of examining the characters, storyline and time period to create the perfect costume for each actor.

From soulful gospel to rhythmic hip-hop, black communities have used music as a medium of cultural expression and to fight against racial injustice. “Harmony & Heritage” on page 34, by Mary Henderson, Fallon Porter and Amalia Tormala takes a look at the history of successful black musicians and how they have impacted all types of advocacy.

Written by Lily Daniel and Alice Sheffer, “Rhythm and Roots’’ on page 39 looks at how hometowns have influenced various artists’ music. Both in genre and lyrically, location can seep into a musician’s identity, shaping the way they write and perform. Whether it’s the local coffee shop, or the people you are surrounded with, your hometown may have influenced you more than you realize.

We hope flipping through the pages of our newest issue starts your year off on the right foot! Whether you are a returning fan or a first-time reader, we are thrilled to have you here. If you are interested in reading more from C Magazine, we hope you await our coming print issues. In the meantime, we look forward to you browsing our online exclusives and past print stories online at cmagazine.org.

Happy reading!

Scarlett Cummings, Siena Dunn, Brooke Hudacek and Zeke Morrison

Web EXCLUSIVES

Find these stories and more at cmagazine.org

Son and Garden VS Farmhouse Kitchen Thai

The Reboot-Revival Renaissance

Music Artists vs. the Test of Time

By Siena Dunn

By Sophia Zhang

By Katelyn Pegg

thanks TO OUR

SPONSORS The Bakhash Family The Boneh Family Cindy Brewer Shahla Chehrazi Sung Cho Cindy Cleary Tim Cleary Christopher Cummings The Daniel Family Jianchun Dong Ed Dunn Linda Farwell Robert Henderson The Kocherry Family Sathish Kumar Gene Lebel

The Meyerfreund Family The Morrison Family The Pegg Family Joan Pinkvoss Stephen Raffle Misha Renclair The Sheffer Family Gael Solos Vijayashree Srinivasan Lorna Thornton The Williams Family Hillis Williams Jingjing Xu Sha Yu Qu Zhou

staff Editors-in-Chief Dunn, Brooke Hudacek, Zeke

Creative Directors Esther Chung, Martina Meyerfreund

Morrison

Business Manager

Managing Editors

Saachi Nagar

Sarah Bakhash, Lily Daniel,

Adviser

Mary Henderson, Anika Raffle

Brian Wilson

Online Editor-in-Chief

Table of Contents Alice Sheffer

Scarlett Cummings, Siena

Sarah Sheaffer Staff Writers

Dylan Berger, Arjun Bharat, Talia Boneh, Sophia Dong, Kaitlyn Gonzalez-Arceo, Maeva Herbert-Paz, Lily Jeffrey, Abbie Karel, Kayley Ko, Sonya Kuzmicheva, Disha Manayilakath, Ria Mirchandani, Katelyn Pegg, Fallon Porter, Alice Sheffer, Isaac Telyaz, Amalia Tormala, Gin Williams, Sophia Zhang Cover Scarlett Cummings, Siena Dunn, Brooke Hudacek and Zeke Morrison

Publication Policy C Magazine, an arts and culture magazine published by the students in Palo Alto High School’s Magazine Journalism class, is a designated open forum for student expression and discussion of issues of concern to its readership. C Magazine is distributed to its readers and the student body at no cost.

Printing & Distribution C Magazine is printed 5 times a year in October, December, February, April and May by aPrintis in Pleasanton, CA. C Magazine is distributed on campus and mailed to sponsors by Palo Alto High School. All C Magazine stories are available on cmagazine.org.

Advertising The staff publishes advertisements with signed contracts, providing they are not deemed by the staff inappropriate for the magazine’s audience. For more information about advertising with C Magazine, please contact business manager Saachi Nagar at businesscmagazine@gmail.com.

Letters to the Editors The C Magazine staff welcomes letters to the editors but reserve the right to edit all submissions for length, grammar, potential libel, invasion of privacy and obscenity.

Send all letters to eicscmagazine@gmail.com or to 50 Embarcadero Rd., Palo Alto, CA 94301.

Illustrators Sarah Bakhash, Talia Boneh, Sabela Chelba, Esther Chung, Lily Daniel, Sophia Dong, Kaitlyn Gonzalez-Arceo, Mary Henderson, Lily Jeffrey, Kayley Ko, Martina Meyerfreund, Ria Mirchandani, Fallon Porter, Anika Raffle, Sarah Sheaffer, Alice Sheffer, David Tomz, An Tran, Charlie Wang, Lily Williams

4 • cmagazine.org

culture Faces of the Moon

6

Threads of Change

10

Education Across the Nations

14

The Death of Print

17

What’s in your bag?

22

arts Behind the Seams

25

Bringing Art to the Elderly

30

Music Harmony & Heritage

34

Rhythm & Roots

39

Tunes Through Time

42

•5

FACE

S OF

MOON

THE

As our societies constantly change, discover how the moon keeps us connected 6 • cmagazine.org

T

he moon is a constant companion in the night sky, a beacon of light that illuminates the world and signals the approach of night.

Every night without failure the moon coexists with the Earth, in a perfect pattern.

Earth’s natural satellite has captivated the human imagination since the dawn of time, its changing phases making their way into many scientific and cultural circles.

Paly astrophysics teacher Michael Lupoli highlights why the moon is so important to us.

“One of the reasons we are what we are today and [why] we’ve made so many advances in society and technology is that we seek to explain phenomena we observe around us,” Lupoli said. “We have that tendency as humans.”

In a diverse community like Palo Alto, the moon’s influence on different traditions and cultures can be discovered through the first-hand experiences of students and experts alike.

Through the views of many people in both the past and present, the moon serves as a vehicle for history, a way to remember and tell ancestral stories.

Reaching back to her Slavic ancestry, Paly senior Kaitlyn Abbassi emphasizes how the lunar system helped Slavic cultures to hunt and survive.

“Traditional communities kept time with the phases of the moon,” Abbassi said.

“For example, during one phase you would gather herbs and other things of that nature.”

Abbassi’s early ancestors even pictured the moon as a spiritual force, guiding and supporting them. “[The moon] is a symbol of abundance, the mystical side of the soul and deeper intuitions,” Abbassi said. “And there’s even a crescent-shaped pendant worn in Slavic cultures that is soulfully symbolic.”

In slavic culture, many people believe and worship a goddess they call Devana, which is similarly the goddess of wild nature and hunting.

For Paly sophomore Dylan Chen, the Mid-Autumn festival

is an important Chinese celebration of the moon’s brightest point and the end of the Autumn harvest.

Chen celebrates with mooncakes, a traditional Chinese baked product commonly associated with the festival.

“There’s all sorts of delicious mooncakes; my family prefers it with egg yolk and we also watch a Chinese show that’s going to be aired during the mid-autumn festival,” Chen said.

Like Abbassi, Chen’s cultural connection with the moon provides the basis for tales that are passed down through generations.

The moon has also been perceived as a celestial being in a variety of cultures, such as the Egyptian god Thoth and the Hindu deity Chandra. Additionally, many indigenous groups see the moon as a god with power over the night, as well as tides.

“Early humans used myth and religion to explain what they saw in the night sky or when they saw something going on in the world around them,” Lupoli said.

This same philosophy is still used in the present day to explain the fantastical folk stories told by all kinds of cultures, connecting us through the human desire to find meaning.

“There are a lot of different Korean stories about young maidens, silk, textiles and fabric, even one about women weaving bridges to the moon, I think because these folk tales derived from making the mundane mythical,” Van Riesen said.

The symbolism of the moon is also romanticized in many Western stories, sayings and music. The saying ‘I’ll love you to the moon and back’ is a popular phrase said for affection, which means to signify a deeper connection to the person being said to, and to describe their feelings as boundless.

In music, the moon is also used frequently in songs to romanticize the lyrics, such as Frank Sinatra’s “Fly Me To The Moon.” The common association with romance may be because people associate the moon with dreams, and romanticizing the moon allows for a dreamy aura.

Associating certain ethereal figures with romance is not something uncommon in society, such as the stars, clouds and northern lights. This common occurrence creates a basis of positive and emotional experiences and can be a reason as to why many use

“The moon is a symbol of abundance, the mystical side of the soul and deeper intuitions.”

Kaitlyn Abbassi, 12 “A story you’ll probably hear in China is the story of Chang’e — it’s so famous that the Chinese space program is named after it,” Chen said. “It’s basically about a princess, or a Jade Rabbit, who got banished to the moon and is watching China, protecting it.”

Paly Senior Anna Van Riesen tells a similar story to the legend of the Jade Rabbit that has been passed down from her Korean heritage, highlighting the overlapping folk tales surrounding the moon in both Chinese and Korean culture.

“There’s a lot of folktales about the moon — one of them I grew up hearing is this nursery rhyme called Santoki. It’s originally in Korean, but the translation reads; ‘Mountain bunny, bunny, where are you going? Hopping, hopping while running, where are you going? Over the mountain pass, pass, I will climb it alone. Plump, plump chestnuts, I’ll find and bring some home,” Van Riesen said.

The song Van Riesen shares describes a bunny collecting nuts and tools under the moonlight; commonly sung by children, the tune is cheery while also highlighting the beauty and symbolism of animals often taught in Chinese and Korean upbringings.

CULTURE • 7

Brown said. “I like the feeling of getting the answers to questions humans them can’t answer.” as symbols of While astrology is no new concept, the self-expression and 2020 pandemic led to its boom in populariexpression of the soul. ty due to its accessibility and rising involveAstrology and the moon are also often ment in social media apps like TikTok. intertwined with spiritual practices, one of People all over the country began listening which is tarot card readings. Within certain to their horoscopes and studying their sun, belief systems, these connections are root- moon and rising signs. ed in symbolism, mysticism and personal For Bigby Brown and many others values. who simiAvid tarot user and junior at Port Ches- larly found ter High School, Hailey Bigby Brown has their passion been practicing tarot as a hobby for for tarot many years. through spir“The actual purpose of tarot itual comis not just to get your questions m u n i t i e s , answered, it can also be tarot can a way to ground yourself; serve as an nna Va to get c o n n e c t e d alter native to the uni- to religion. verse,” Big“Tarot helps me ground myself, and is

by Brown said. a way to connect with beings beyond our Like Bigby Brown, many comprehension, kind of like how praying tarot readers will do read- in Christianity connects you to god,” Bigby ings during certain phases Brown said. “The tarot as a whole is not just of the moon. Each card in a any old deck of cards with pictures on it; it deck of tarot has a different symbol on the has meaning. The meaning can differentifront, which signifies different meanings. ate depending on who is using them. For The card of the moon is one of these, which me, the meaning is to build a strong consymbolizes the subconscious, intuition and nection between them and the universe.” inner visions. However when it comes to From the origin of the solar system, the reader’s the moon question, there has been is no direct Earth’s sole answer for the companion. cards pulled, it Through reis up for the inligion and terpretation of language, it’s the reader and left its mark can mean difon the world, ferent things to voiced today different peoby a diverse ple. array of peo“A lot of ple within the questions I our commuasked the cards Michael Lupoli, Paly astrophysics nity. were answered, Despite teacher but not in a the many straightforward cultural difway; it’s more ferences we may have, we can all agree on of interpretation and figuring out for your- one thing: we all use the moon in our lives, self what the cards mean to you,” Bigby whether it is through science, religion, lan-

guage or in our own unique way.

“The moon may mean different things to different people,”Abbassi said, “But throughout time, its significance has become undeniable.”

“Folk tales derived from making the mundane mythical.”

A

“Early humans used myth

and religion to explain what they saw in the night sky or when they saw something going on in the world around them.”

8 • cmagazine.org

n Reisen, 12

MOON CYCLES Third Quarter

Waning Crescent

Waning Gibbous

Full Moon

New Moon

Waxing Crescent

Waxing Gibbous

First Quarter

Text and Design by ARJUN BHARAT, ABIGAIL KAREL and SARAH SHEAFFER • Art by DAVID TOMZ and SARAH SHEAFFER

CULTURE • 9

Threads of

Text, design, and photos by TALIA BONEH, DISHA MANAYILAKATH, and SOPHIA ZHANG • Art by TALIA BONEH

CHANGE Unraveling the modern methods of ethical consumption and avoiding fast fashion.

A

s Palo Alto residents walk around downtown, they may find themselves looking through the glass walls of Filmore into racks of assorted clothes that are scattered on double-layered clothing racks. Sweaters and jeans line up walls, organized by their respective sizes and colors on either side. Miles away in Los Altos is the Discovery Shop, a cozy and quiet secondhand store welcomes customers through the doors. Contrasting to stores like H&M, Urban Outfitters and other stores that rely on fast fashion, businesses like these second-hand stores are an uprising method to increase ethical consumption.

Paly AP Macroeconomics and Economics teacher Eric Bloom ties part of environmental harm caused by the fashion industry to the consequences of fast fashion.

“Fast fashion refers to the rapid production of clothing and is criticized for its negative environmental and ethical impacts, including waste generation, poor working conditions and exploitation of natural resources,” Bloom said.

The negative effects of fast fashion are created by the capitalism-feeding frenzy.

Bloom believes that ethical considerations are often neglected in the realm of capitalism.

“The problem is that capitalism, driven by profit motives, inherently prioritizes economic growth and shareholder returns over ethical considerations,” Bloom said.

“These two forces hinder ‘true competition’ and allow some [economic growth and shareholder returns] to pass off risk to the community.”

Grant Blackburn, another Paly AP Macroeconomics and Economics teacher,

10 • cmagazine.org

observes that the rising popularity of using Alongside the lower accessibility for purfast fashion to manufacture inexpensive chasing clothes with exclusive materials, clothing is due to its ability to create afford- social media also plays a crucial role in the able products. prevalence of fast fashion in today’s mar“If you’re in the lower part of the in- ket. Paly junior Aria Shah is one of many come strata, cheap things matter because who has fallen victim to microtrends that [your] budget doesn’t stretch that far,” are amplified on social media apps.

Blackburn said. “I think for people who “I think there’s a lot of pressure make a lot more money, they have in buying new things because a the ability to make their choices, the lot of people are influenced ability to make choices for by famous peobetter environmental ple or influencers outcomes, better ethon social media,” ical outcomes, all of Shah said. “Social those kinds of things media is creating beyond just the ecoa sense of urgen“Ethical consumerism nomic part.” cy to keep up with encourages consumers to Many reasons the latest fashion, be mindful of the social add to the popuand also endorsing larity of unethical influencers who get and environmental clothing producsponsored by fast consequences of their tion, such as comfashion brands.” purchases and to support petition between Thirfting also companies. Aditya enables participabusinesses that adhere to Sundaram, a freshtion in the latest ethical standards.” man at the London trends while also -Eric Bloom, School of Econombeing beneficial to Economics teacher ics, believes that the environment. many brands have Lily Williams, a Paly rational views on ethsophomore and avid ical consumption, spethrifter, recalls how cifically businesses with a lower economic thrifting can serve as a way to reuse clothes status who disregard ethical considerations. that would otherwise be thrown away.

“A large portion of consumers will “You’re buying clothes that have already be incentivized to consume unethically been put out there,” Williams said. “So you produced items [due to the low prices],” can participate in trend cycles, which norSundaram said. “Producers who use eth- mally create lots of waste, without putting ical methods will charge a premium and more waste out into the world.” will be aiming their product towards richer On the business side of thrift stores, consumers, so it would probably be less ac- Austin Eng, a sales associate at Blue Bin cessible.”

Vintage, has noticed social media portray-

ing thrifting in a positive light, encouraging competitive,” Blackburn said. “We more people to thrift. have to be mindful of ‘greenwash“I do think that media can also be a ing’, where companies present a show great way of promoting eco-friendly and of ethical practices without genuine ethical consumption in clothing because commitment. This makes it harder for cona lot of people post about thrifting and sumers to make ethical choices.” shopping at local flea markets to support However, more and more Paly students not only small businesses, but also help the are getting involved with sustainability, and environment through that [thrifting] as spreading awareness on how to avoid well,” Eng said. greenwashing. Sophomores Chloe However, the rise Huang and Christina of thrifting is not solely Gu run Paly’s first susattributed to social metainable fashion club dia influence. Thrifting that allows students to “ You can participate was also sparked by the discuss and intertwine increased promotion sustainability and fashin trend cycles, of ethical consumion. which normally erism and the wide“I feel like a lot of create lots of spread disapproval of people want to get fast fashion. into thrifting or want waste, without “Ethical consumto shop sustainably, putting more waste erism encourages conbut don’t know how out into the world.” sumers to be mindful to,” Huang said. “We of the social and enjust wanted to create a -Lily Williams, vironmental consecommunity of people 10th grade quences of their purthat could share their chases and to support favorite thrift stores businesses that adhere to and create a safe commuethical standards,” Bloom said. nity where we can inspire each other to Many people are beginning to pressure shop sustainably and to care for the planet clothing companies to adopt more ethical through sustainable fashion.” clothing production methods, which has Among the community of thrifters at resulted in several businesses misinforming Paly, sophomore Elsa Lagerblad states that the _public to increase sales. thrifting is an effective method of being “As consumer demand for ethical conscious of the environment. products grows, businesses may respond “When you go thrifting you’re not conby incorporating ethitributing to more clothes becal practices to remain ing made, and you’re

preventing waste from other clothes being thrown away,” Lagerblad said.

“So you’re stopping waste and pollution on two ends of the cycle.”

Many Paly students make active efforts to ensure the cruelty-free nature of their clothing, staying aware of what their clothes are made of after buying them.

“You can look at the composition of the materials used,” Williams said. “If it’s a lot of acrylic, I wouldn’t [buy it] unless it’s a design I want. Second-hand wool is good, and you can get things with second-hand leather which is good because it lasts a while, and

CULTURE • 11

t h e n y o u ’ r e not worried thinking, ‘Am I killing a cow?’”

Junior Kaliope Hendershot, a retail worker at the American Cancer Society Discovery

Shop, frequently buys from the Discovery users’ digital wardrobe and alteration, Shop because she knows where the clothes cleaning, repair, upcycling and customizaare coming from, and uses that knowledge tion services. Hasna Kourda, the CEO and to avoid fast fashion. co-founder of Save Your Wardrobe, “At the Discovery Shop, because created the digital platform to advance I help source the stuff… I know circular fashion. where it’s coming from,” “I was born and grew up in Hendershot said. “I Tunisia and back then manknow that all this agement of resources was stuff is donated, quite circular at a large that it’s eco-friendscale,” Kourda said. “My “It’s not a matter ly.” grandmother taught me or purchasing Even as a busidifferent skill sets when ness, thrift compait came to fashion, to more sustainble nies will try their understand fibers, to unthings... it’s more best to reduce as derstand how to repair about whatever you much waste as things, and she was very purchase, you have to possible. involved in supporting the give it as long a life “With unsold local craft. The idea was clothing items, to bring back those values cycle as possible.” we send them to to these habits and power -Hasna Kourda, Ceo an organization them with technology to and co-founder of Save called Hope for make sure that our generYour Wardrobe the Homeless, so a ation would have easy aclot of this stuff gets cess to these traditions and recycled,” Heninitiatives.” dershot said. “In fact, Save Your Wardrobe a lot of the fabrics that didn’t get used, that has various features to educate the user were donated, are used to wrap gifts so that about the sustainability ratings of people could buy pre-packaged gifts at the clothing and what ethical condiDiscovery Shop for Christmas.” tions it is associated with.

Many innovative ways to ad“We did a partnership with dress fast fashion issues have Good on You that would highlight been developed, including the impact of the brand’s ratSave Your Wardrobe, an ing, how sustainable they app that provides are, whether it’s for ani-

Aria Shah, 11th grade

Noah Espinoza, 9th grade

Kae Huang, 10th grade 12 • cmagazine.org

cmag-

a-

mal welfare, working conditions, and the environmental impact,” Kourda said.

The multiple functionalities of Save Your Wardrobe have been shown to heighten awareness among people regarding fashion brands and purchases.

“One feature asked whether they [users] felt guilty and were justifying the reasoning behind owning a certain type of brands, or thought it [Save Your Wardrobe] was actually an eye-opener,” Kourda said. “People were able to look into the brands in a different way and see alternatives to other brands that we’re offering the same style, or positioned in the same pricing, but we’re more sustainable. So, it’s actually very interesting as well

the type of knowledge that can empower the consumer in changing their habits.”

Pursuing ethical decisions when purchasing clothes has its limitations. Kourda emphasizes that maintaining one’s clothing pieces with the intention of long wear takes priority over purchasing from ethical sources.

“It’s not a matter of purchasing more sustainable things,” Kourda said.

“But it’s more about whatever you purchase, you have to care for it and give it as long a life cycle as possible and make sure that you repair and care for it.”

As the world’s fashion industry and economy constantly shifts, preserving and maintaining environmental health greatly influences what all aspects of the future will look like.

“It’s all about active choices,” Eng said. “Choosing to adapt your life to be more eco-friendly is one step closer to contributing to a more sustainable society.”

Cal Currier, 12th grade Chloe Huang, 10th grade

Rebecca Fakatou, 12th grade

CULTURE • 13

Text, design, art and photos by ANIKA RAFFLE, KAITLYN GONZALEZ-ARCEO and RIA MIRCHANDANI

Education nations across

the

As education systems across the globe evolve, the quest for equitable learning remains paramount, transcending borders.

Communities internationally have emphasized the importance of education for millennia. Each culture’s vision for what their children will grow up to be shapes their style of education, causing schools around the world to vary greatly.

Traditional education was developed in the West as a method to enhance the intellectual advancements of society. For hundreds of years, conventional Western education was limited to the aristocracy. Wealthy ancient Greecians were tutored in philosophy, mathematics and job trades. Other civilizations, including Ancient Egyptians and Romans, were taught similarly.

What these ancient cultures valued about education differs greatly from the values of today, according to Larry Cuban, a Professor Emeritus of Education at Stanford University.

“A good education was [defined as] educating the elite of every society,” Cuban said. “The notion of educating everyone didn’t really come until centuries later.”

Just two centuries ago, education

14 • cmagazine.org cmag-

shifted from a privilege to a right. Accord- good, and you’re eventually going to end ing to The United Nations Educational, up in the same line of work as everyone Scientific and Cultural Organization (UN- else,’” Pillay said.

ESCO), the global literacy rate for people This outlook on education contrasts signifiaged 15 and older has increased by 44 cantly with the ideals rooted in America, percent since 1960, now established at 86 especially in the Palo Alto community. percent in 2024. In the year 1800, it is esti- “[I like] the positive enforcement you get mated that only 12.1 percent of the world here about college, the amount of options, was literate. the encouragement [that] life is going to As the general public flooded through class- expand once you get to college and that’s room doors for when your life the first time, really begins,” individual Pillay said.

“The history department communities Paly Sophobegan develmore Catarina gets a huge amount of oping their Marchesi-Carpressure to have more own ideals surbone also saw APs...We are always rounding eduvast differences cation. Today, between the culfighting that [because] our each country tures surroundclasses benefit from having and city has a ing education everybody.” unique eduin her former cation system home, Brazil, -Caitlin Drewes, Social to encourage and in Palo Alto.

Studies Teacher their own prin“It [a country’s ciples. values] reflects Paly sophoin how you more Tarika teach school,” Pillay attended school in South Africa for Marchesi-Carbone said. “In Brazil, it’s the most of her life. Since transferring to Paly, opposite [of America], everything is stanshe has noticed stark differences in people’s dardized for that big test. Here in America, mentalities surrounding the purpose of they give you assignments… you have a lot school and pursuing higher levels of edu- of choices.” cation.

Despite the rising global emphasis on edu“[In South Africa], people sell college as, cation, many still lack full access to quality ‘you’re not going to major in something schooling. Ahana Kripalani, a high school

a-

junior who attends Indus international Cuban said. more?’ — In the history department, we school in Hyderabad, India, notes the ineq- Josh Bloom, a current Physics and Astron- are always fighting that [because] our classuity she sees within her own school. omy teacher at Paly, as well as the former es benefit from having everybody.”

“We all have tutors outside of school,” principal of Lydian Academy, a one-to-one Paly junior Helena Gonzalez-Bondolowski Kripalani said.“The international students learning school, acknowledges the impor- believes that both the families and commuwho live on board sometimes get tance of having alternate learning methods nities of students impact standards around help from teachers, but in terms available. education. of resources, it’s unfair.”

“Large classroom settings may struggle to “My parents went to school in Spain, so Economic disparities are also ram- meet the unique needs of every student,” they didn’t experience American college,” pant in the American schooling Bloom said. “The purpose of a one-to-one Gonzalez-Bondolowski said. “Coming to system, belearning school is Palo Alto and seeing where the whole colcause school funding to provide a place lege process is so extreme, they [my parmainly comes from where there are no ents] went with it because their friends’ kids “Coming to Palo Alto... property taxes in the cracks for students are in these extreme programs to get them district’s area. to fall through.” into the best schools.” where the whole college “Everyone has the Similar to Lydian Similar behavior to that of Palo Alto resprocess is so extreme, right to be educated Academy, alterna- idents, which push academic success and they [my parents] went to their fullest,” Cutive schools and rigorous work loads, occurs throughban said. “Now, what teaching styles have out the world. It’s crucial, however, with it.” happens of course, developed in recent to acknowledge the privilege to -Helena Gonzalezis that race and class years to allow for be able to take certain classes Bondolowski, 11 enter into the picture. more flexibility in and have the opportunity to sucIf you have money, personalized learn- ceed in our current school systems. you can do that for ing that takes into “America’s gift to the world is that your kids, but if you account the needs everyone has the right to be educathave much less money and you are trying of each student. ed to their fullest,” Cuban said. to put food on the table and have a roof “Social-emotional learning is essential, On a global scale, dozens of democratic over your head, then that’s much harder to but it’s challenging in a system focused on governments have attempted to provide think about.” scores, tests and grades.” Bloom said. “The accessible, affordable and quality educaCaitlin Drewes, a Paly social studies teach- shift towards recognizing and rewarding tion to all their citizens. But the amount of er who formerly taught in Bangladesh for softer skills is happening but takes time.” money directed towards education directly the Peace Corps, reflects on her experience Many schools are hesitant to take inclusive correlates with the resources in a classroom, with this conflict in her own classroom. steps or prioritize students’ non-academic and the quality of learning.

“You see the kid who couldn’t get their needs in the classroom. In the face of highly “Money and being able to send your kid to homework done because their mom got competitive school environments, like that an expensive private school allows them a arrested that night, or you see the kid who of Palo Alto, it can be difficult for teachers better education in any way, shape or form,” shares a bedroom with five siblings and to find a balance.

Marchesi-Carwho can’t take their AP US History class There is a struggle bone said. online,” Drewes said. between the com“Even though “The belief that everyone Even half a century after education was petitive test-driven we go to Paly, should be educated means declared a human right by the United Na- nature and teacha really good tions in 1948, groups who were historically ers wanting each public school, that there isn’t only one excluded from education face many disad- student to have sending your best system for everyone.” vantages. equal resources. kid to a small“In the highest level AP STEM classes, “People [in Palo er private -Larry Cuban, Stanford there tends to be fewer girls, [and] fewer Alto] want everyschool would Professor of Education brown and black students,” Drewes said. one to have access be a better “That’s not because they’re not smart or [to education], but choice.” clever. It’s because somewhere they got [in- often what hapDiscriminafluential] messaging.” pens is parents, tion in schools Many argue that our current style of tra- when it comes down to it, are thinking transcends race, disability and gender; soditional public schooling does not guaranabout their own kids,” Drewes said. cioeconomic status plays an undeniable role tee equal opportunities, especially for “For example, the history depart- in education. “The belief is that education those with disabilities, responsibilities ment gets a huge amount is how to get more money outside of school, and minorities. of pressure to have more for everyone,” Cuban “The belief that everyone should be APs — ‘Why don’t we have said. “If you get ededucated means that there isn’t only more APs in history so kids who ucated, you get a one best system for everyone,” are strong in humanities can take better job. America

CULTURE • 15 CULTURE • 15

er.”

Each country in the world has a unique system and method of eduthe Paly community, value higher levels cation that is interlinked and inspired of education. from others.

Evie Kramer, Coming to terms a Paly alum with the differences “[Being a] high school who transin economic, culferred from graduate is not enough tural and societal Ireland, notes gaps in our current in our system.” the differences education system is -Caitlin Drewes, Social between the an essential step toculture in Palo Studies Teacher wards a more benAlto and her eficial form of former school.

“Any university is considered an accomplishment, and there’s less prestige related to the name of a university,” Kramer said. “It was shocking coming here, just feeling that pressure. As far as a cultural value on the name of the school you’re going to, [such as] Ivy Leagues being idolized. In Ireland, that’s not the case, and education is prioritized for education’s sake.”

Globally, being able to attend university is entirely a privilege. Findings from Harvard University show only 6.7% of the world has a college degree. “[Being a] high school graduate is not enough in our system,” Drewes said. “You need what’s going to help you save money for retirement and not be living paycheck to paycheck. Even trade programs like plumbers and electricians do well, but you need something beyond high school.”

To some, continuing learning after high school is not a possibility. Throughout the world, education has been reinforced as a means to elevate society and innovate new ideas. The idea of what education should teach students is constantly developing and changing.

“We’re so polarized, we’re so separated for so many different reasons,” Bloom said. “We have to find ways to bridge those divides and see each other as human so that we can make progress and work togethoperates in a slightly different fashion; you have to have much more going for you.”

A significant portion of the US, and

16 • cmagazine.org

learning.

“A broader goal of education would be to help us understand that we’re all part of an ecosystem of humanity,” Bloom said. “We all belong to each other, and in the end, we’re all in this together.”

the

Death Print of

As media moves digital, will the journalism industry follow suit?

CULTURE • 17 CULTURE • 17

C

ommunication has been central to the human experience for hundreds of years. It continues to evolve – from verbal storytelling to handwritten letters, radio broadcasts, social media posts and texting. As these forms of communication develop, users can access content faster and at a larger scale than ever before and knowledge from across the world just is few clicks away.

This vast network of content in the digital space has put journalism, the reporting of news and stories from around the world, at a crossroads: continue to share their information through print content, or move completely online.

In the past, journalists have exclusively used print materials to communicate their stories to readers. By the early 1800s, newsprint gained rapid popularity as industrialization enabled mass production of daily papers, allowing distribution to a larger audience.

But as modern technology has developed in the form of television news broadcasts and later social media platforms, many publications have shifted their attention to attracting online readers, with some moving away from print entirely.

Jim Streisel, a high school journalism teacher at Carmel High School in Carmel, Indiana, has experienced this shift in journalism firsthand, as his student’s publication, HiLite, has gone completely digital after losing the funding to print.

In the transition, Streisel and his students have found positives in going digital as they adapt to the constant accessibility of online journalism.

“People may not see the story the first day you publish it, but they might see it two or three days later,” Streisel said.

“Whereas with print, once it's gone, they [readers] have to go find it somewhere if they can, but with online it's always there.”

Digital publishing also allows students to experiment with new mediums of communication, which are not viable in print.

“One other benefit we've had as a website is that if you go fully online, it opens up a whole new set of tools, multimedia, video, interactive stuff, and with only doing print, you can’t do any of that,” Streisel said.

While these benefits provide journalists the opportunity to develop more diverse skill sets, Paly journalism teacher Paul Kandell notes that print journalism offers students a unique opportunity to receive a tangible product they helped to create.

“The students clearly like working with the print product, whether or not it's received with the same appreciation as in previous generations,” Kandell said. “But we seem to be in a kind of holding pattern now, where the product is appreciated enough and the students like producing it enough that we're going to stick with it for a while.”

Similarly, Senior Dan Honigstein, the In-depth editor of Gunn High School's print publication, The Oracle, and a former contributor to the exclusively online publication, Midpeninsula Post, believes print can be more rewarding for journalism students.

“Daily papers like New York Times print every day, but it is special for a school newspaper to print once a month,” Honigstein said. “For the students, looking out for it on distribution day is exciting because everyone's reading it and there's more student interaction, as opposed to everybody reading the stories isolated on their own screens.”

Though many students prefer to produce in print, Kandell acknowledges that teaching digital skills is crucial to setting up students for future success.

“We'd be irresponsible as journalism teachers if we were not also giving students digital tools at the same time,” Kandell said. “Print is going the way of the photography dark room.”

In contrast, Celina Lee, news editor for The Paly Voice, which operates exclusively online, feels that digital journalism gives her the same gratification as print, just in a different form.

“When you write an article, you design something and then you get to see it,” Lee said. “You get to see a tangible outcome of your work, but at the same time, I’d argue that I can also just see what I do online.”

Digital reporting also offers information to be communicated at a much faster pace, which modern consumers look for in their

“A downside of digital media is that it can support confirmation bias.”

Dan Honigstein, Gunn senior

818 1 • cmagazine.org

media consumption.

“The main difference is that print publications often think of themselves only as on a six-week or nine-week timetable,” Kandell said. “That is completely anathema to the way consumers want to digest their news or receive news now. They want it immediately.”

This immediate consumption of digital news exposes consumers to large quantities of content, but exclusively consuming news online can often restrict a reader within their interests and mindset.

“A downside of digital media is that it can support confirmation bias more,” Honigstein said.

“Readers are more likely to click on stories that cover topics they already know about rather than completely new ones.”

In the past, newsprint has been able to dictate what the public focuses on through printing relevant stories, which, according to Stanford communications professor Theodore Glasser, has given a select number of publications power to influence public perceptions.

“Newspapers set an agenda by virtue of their design,” Glasser said. “Big and bold headlines above the fold signal a newsroom’s judgment about what belongs at the top of the day’s agenda. There’s nothing analogous in the digital domain. In the absence of a juxtaposition of stories, digital journalism weakens the role the press plays in influencing the quality of public discourse.”

Because of the sheer amount of digital content, many publications compete for users' attention through creating eye-catching content. Because of this, journalist and Paly Media Arts Program founder Esther Wojcicki notes that exaggerated content can be more prevalent online. “[Digital media] impacts the journalism industry a lot, because most reporters

are writing headlines and stories for clicks,” Wojcicki said. “That encourages more sensationalism.”

Since publications need funding for their products, news that attracts readers is valuable, even if it isn’t completely true.

“Maybe the news isn't 100% fake, but... it probably emphasizes a part of the news that was not really meant to be emphasized,” Wojcicki said. “I, unfortunately, think the controlling factor here in the US­, well in the world, is money; people want to make money on this and that's what's contributing to print newspapers going down.”

Economical issues, a problem that juournalists have been struggling with for decades, are a driving force in print publications moving online.

“Newspaper publishers have been struggling to devise a ‘business model’ that makes sense; so far, nothing looks very promising,” Glasser said. “It's been difficult to dislodge thinking that, for two centuries, equated a free press with free enterprise, but more and more newsrooms are looking beyond the marketplace for opportunities for success. Philanthropy is now playing an important role in American journalism.”

The Palo Alto Weekly has recently become a non-profit organization, which means it can now receive tax-deductible donations, according to chief executive editor of Embarcadero Media Adam Dawes.

“We decided to become a nonprofit because our historical revenue has come from advertising, which has supported the compa

“Print is going the way of the photography dark room.”

Paul Kandell, Paly Journalism Adviser

CULTURE • 19

ny for more than 40 years, and that revenue has been declining,” Dawes said. “That has affected local news all over the nation and all over the world, as things have moved online and the business landscape has changed, and so we needed to find new sources of revenue.”

In contrast, carving out funding for publications within the government could ease financial needs, but could cause issues with ensuring a free press.

“Another approach would involve state subsidies as a way to insulate journalism from market forces,” Glasser said.

“This has more appeal in Europe, especially among some of the Scandinavian countries, than in the United States. First Amendment implications need to be considered with regard to American proposals for a role for the state in creating and sustaining a free and independent press.”

Digital advertising has also decreased demand for print advertising, which Stanford communications professor and director of the Stanford journalism program James Hamilton believes has greatly decreased income for print publications.

“The rise of advertising online has reduced the desirability of advertising in print,” Hamilton said. “That has radically reduced classified advertising in print, retail advertisements, and other advertising that once accounted for 80% of newspaper print revenues.”

The lack of print ads and the subsequent lack of funding have caused staffing shortages for many publications.

“Online ads don't in any way produce enough to cover the costs of that print ad used to bring in in terms of percentage of revenue for a publication staff,” Kandell said. “Most of those expenses probably would be in the staffing itself, the human resources, and we just can't afford to keep journalists around on what online publications bring in. Print publications were a better model for that.”

This decline in the scale of print publications has influenced modern-day reporting and the resources that journalists have to cover stories that impact their communities.

“We have so many fewer journalists now than we did 10 or 15 years ago,” Kandell said. “It was cataclysmic. What happened to newsrooms and our democracy in our culture will pay a price for a very, very long time.”

As for print completely vanishing from relevance, Hamilton believes that it will continue to have some value for the time being.

“I think print may continue to exist for a while since a segment of the population, particularly older readers, prefers the ability to

read a print newspaper,” Hamilton said. “That demographic will decline over time, however, and more and more reading will shift online.”

In terms of education from print versus digital journalism, Wojcicki believes that the benefits from physical print offer students a contrasting experience to digital media.

“If you compare your experience reading a newspaper versus seeing it online, you'll see it's really different,” Wojcicki said. “So if I were teaching today at Paly, I would have students compare a newspaper they read in hardcopy, maybe the Mercury News and the Mercury News Online version, and see how that impacts their reading.”

Journalism educator and president of the Journalism Education Association, Valerie Kibler, emphasizes the importance of media literacy as a skill taught in the classroom.

“I would like to think that, in the education world, we are reverting back hopefully to teaching kids how to use media literacy to tell the difference between what is fact and what is fair,” Kibler said.

In journalistic education, Streisel believes shifting online may offer a new platform for students to showcase their skills without financial pressures.

“I think that it [the switch from print to digital publications] is already happening in some smaller schools because their budgets aren't nearly as high, and having the ability to put things online is a nice, accessible way for them to continue to do great journalism,” Streisel said. “It's a kind of leveling field; schools with big budgets can make slick-looking print publications, but when everything goes online you just have the same design software.”

Streisel’s students also considered the environmental impacts of printing their magazine frequently, which has also been a concern for some in the Palo Alto community, including Olivia Stinson, a Castillija senior and media team head of the Palo Alto Student Climate Coalition.

“In general, if we look at all of the companies and everybody in the world, I don’t think that the news organization is the main contributing factor to climate change,” Stinson said. “But I do think that every industry does play a big part and that it is something that we should still be considering.”

To outweigh these environmental

“New generations of journalists will either adapt to changes in journalism or they will change those changes.”

Ted Glasser, Stanford Communications Professor

20 • cmagazine.org

Text, design and photo illustration by DYLAN BERGER, SAACHI NAGAR and GIN WILLIAMS

impacts, Stinson suggests reading print publicatio ns for “I've been doing this almost 30 years, seeing a lot of longer periods. change in that time,” Streisel said. “The one thing that “If you read the newspaper on a piece of paper for a has never changed, and probably never will, is this ability certain amount of time, like 30 minutes to an hour, you to tell good stories… [the] elements of news are never actually outweigh the environmental balance of reading going to change.” online versus on paper, because when you read someThe future of journalism lies in the hands of the next thing online, it takes a lot of water and other resou rces to generation: the people who will continue to tell the stories run the servers,” Stinson said. of our global community.

These resources can also be costly to publicatio ns, “New generations of journalists will either adap t to paying for the materials needed to produce in print . changes in journalism or they will change those chang“Newspapers require an expensive infrastructu re — es,” Glasser said. tons of paper and ink, costly printing presses, peop le to The evolution of journalism will continue to chan ge run the presses, fleets of vehicles to distribute the news- how we consume news, but Streisel emph asizes that stopaper,” Glasser said. ries will continue to be relevant to the public.

Although this economic necessity poses a challe nge, “You're starting to see sort of an erosion of the print news and stories that bind cultures and communitie s to- side of journalism,” Streisel said. “The journ alism itself gether will continue to be necessary in a grow ingly di- is not going away. It's still there. It's still very strong. Peovided world, and journalism’s ability to communica te is ple always have that need for profession als to tell good crucial to providing accessibility to current event s going stories and to share infor mation. I think that that's never forward. going to die.”

CULTURE • 21

“ Everyone carries a bag. Whether it’s for fashion, school or sports, a bag is essential to our everyday lives. Delving deeper into what’s in someone’s backpack not only reveals a lot about their lifestyle, but also their passions and interests.

“

DAILY I get called the mom friend a lot because I’m always carrying a lot of things people might need, so I think it’s easier to carry a bag.”

Alessandra

Chandler, 12

22 • cmagazine.org

“

ACADEMICS

I like my backpack because green is pretty unique so it makes mine really easy to tell apart. Aside from the obvious backpack essentials, I always like to have my headphones so I can listen to music during work time, as well my camera, just in case there’s ever a great photo opp.”

Natasha

Strauss, 12

“

SPORTS

I got my backpack my freshman year and it has served me well throughout high school.

I like that I can also fit my shoes inside.”

Aiden Hangebrauck, 12 Text, design, photos and art by SARAH BAKHASH and MARTINA MEYERFREUND

CULTURE • 23

24 • cmagazine.org

Behind the Seams From initial sketches to sourcing and tailoring pieces, there is more that goes into costume design than what is seen on stage

CULTURE ART • 25

A

n yo n e who has watched Paly Theatre’s award-winning productions can appreciate the dazzling dynamo jumpsuits in Mamma Mia, feathery costumes in The Birds or the scrappy aprons in Radium Girls.

The hard-working tech crew that works behind the scenes is truly what makes these shows come to life. If you have ever watched a Paly theatre production, you may fail to notice the carefully curated and handmade costumes that place the audience right into the world of the show.

The design process begins months before the show is seen by the public – the costume team works hard to ensure the performance expresses the story through specific elements of the designs.

Paly’s current production of Hamlet is set to open on April 13, 2024. The masterminds behind the designs are sophomore Vasim Jamil Fee, senior An Tran and freshman Thomas Pitman.

“We analyze the characters, we analyze the storyline, the time period and anything that we need to keep in mind for the design process,” Tran said.

Tran explains what goes into her thought process and inspiration when de-

signing costumes.

“I’m very into studying high fashion trends,” Tran said. “It helps me understand how I can communicate something through silhouette, texture, fabrics and color.”

There is an extensive amount of thought that goes into each character’s costume, using the different elements to communicate a message to the audience.

Through costumes, the team can create a visual representation of the character’s growth, relationships and interactions.

“We tend to give one iconic color to each character and if we change those colors, that’s signifying character growth or their arc,” Tran said.

Throughout this process, Sarah Thermond, Director of Paly’s theater program watches as the team works hard behind the scenes. Thermond agrees that the work of the costume department is crucial when planning the show.

“It’s very cool to see how the hypothetical design ends up getting realized through either student creations or pieces that they find and buy,” Thermond said.

“As the show develops and they start talking to other tech departments, adjustments might get made from the original plan.”

Costumes are essential to making an engaging experience for the audience, as well as a more realistic feel for the actors.

Thermond emphasizes the important role that costumes play in the overall performance of the show.

“Costumes are so integral not only to communicating the story to the audience, but also to helping actors feel like they are truly a part of the world of the play,” Thermond said. “Our designers check rehearsal reports and actor blocking to make sure that

“We analyze the characters, we analyze the storyline, the time period and that we need to keep in mind for the design process.”

- An Tran, 12

Research Costume designers look over the setting, storyline, and the time the play takes place, to get a basic idea of costumes that may suit the actos. Designers look through photos and mood boards to find more inspiration.

De s i g n Ti m e l i ne

Designers, determine a rough color palette and determine what colors look good together and will suit the play. Actors are given specific colors that illustrate their personalities throughout the play.

Color stories 26 • cmagazine.org

their costume is accurate, creative and functional for that performer.”

While each play is different, the team uses its existing resources to its advantage although they are sometimes forced to think outside the box. Costumes from previous productions are stored in the PAC and Haymarket Theatre until they are ready to be used again.

“When we can, we try to reuse as many costumes as possible,” Tran said. “But if not, we tend to buy any niche items we need, like a weirdly colored apron or a graphic tee.”

Because of the overwhelming action of the performance, the audience often is unaware of the thought that goes into every costume.

“I think costumes, in particular, can be overlooked because clothing is something we assume is widely available; especially when you do a modern show, you figure: ‘Oh, the actors can just wear their own stuff,’” Thermond said. “But there is always much more to it than that, even when actors do bring things in.”

The performers also have a deep appreciation for the hard work and dedication

that goes into the costumes in the play. Sophomore Aashi Agarwal, a dedicated member of the Paly theater program, believes that costumes can begin to tell a story before the actor even says a line.

“Costumes usually help me get into character more, because they help me realize that everything is more real,” Agarwal said. “Costumes set a lot of things, like the time period and help inform the personalities of different characters” Actors find that a realistic costume helps not only set the mood of the show but also helps them to truly embody and understand the characteristics and mannerisms of their characters.

“A good costume can make me feel confident and like I am the character,” senior actor Eloise Dumas said. “Especially if you’re doing a period piece and you’re wearing

something cumbersome that they actually would have worn at the time, then you physically are restricted in the same way the character would have been back in that time period.”

The costume team does not go unnoticed by the actors, they are the ones who see, wear and appreciate the work that is put into the costumes.

“They [costume designers] deserve all the credit in the world because they put in so much more work than people realize,” senior actor Jack Champlin said, “So many hours and so much thought into every single character, and I really admire it.”

People usually acknowledge only what is happening on stage, and what happens

“Costumes are so integral not only to communicating the story to the audience, but also to helping the actors feel like they are truly a part of the world of the play.”

- Sarah Thermond, director

Initial sketches Sketches are drawn to provide different costume possibilities and to narrow down the choices. The costumes are sketched and labeled to give the costume designers a good idea of what to look for to put the costumes together.

Fitting The actors try on the costumes and adjustments are made if something doesn’t fit or needs anything changed.

To retrieve the costumes, designers try to reuse costumes from previous productions and pick and choose materials that may be used to put together a fitting costume. If more materials are needed, they will buy whatever materials are still needed.

Costume searching

Costumes are tested through quick changes during dress rehearsals a few days before showtime, and further adjustments are made. The costumes are finally worn for the show, and seen by the audience filled theater.

Showtime CULTURE ART • 27

behind the curtains goes unseen. Thermond emphasizes the under-appreciation of costume designers.

“I feel like all tech elements are underappreciated, which especially makes me sad, because here at Paly nearly all tech elements are student-designed, and student-created,” Thermond said.

Not only is costume design overlooked by the audience, but many challenges come with the role of designing costumes.

In a typical performance, costume designers are given fewer than three months for the overall design process, from designing to having them on the stage. The challenge of timing arises when the products aren’t where the t e a m would like them to b eb y a certain point.

“There’s never enough time to get where I’d like to be with the costumes

28 • cmagazine.org

and they’re never perfect by opening night, and we have to make changes after that,” Tran said.

Jamil Fee, co-costume designer, elaborates on the race against time and how their processes change with the different prep periods.

“If we have a longer setup period, then we go through more design processes,” Jamil Fee said. “For example, we will create a mood board with our entire design crew, and we’ll get more reference images and designs drawn.”

A quick change is where an actor has to quickly change out of one costume and into another, given a short peri- o d .

Quick changes can be a big challenge for both the actors and the design team, as complex costumes can be difficult to change in and out of. “[Quick changes

are] very messy and we try to be quiet about it, but we’re not,” Tran said.

The costume design team works tirelessly to bring the show to life, and with their help the production can run smoothly and transport the audience into the world of the show.

Through the ups and downs of costume design, the final designs play a significant role in transforming the play from a mere vision to an engaging presentation on opening night.

“It almost feels like all of the rehearsals have been leading up to that moment,” Champlin said. “It feels like [with costumes] it finally is becoming the show.”

Text and design by KATELYN PEGG, LILY JEFFREY and SONYA KUZMICHEVA • Art by AN TRAN and LILY JEFFREY • Photos by GREG BRAIL, KATELYN PEGG and LILY JEFFREY

Q &A

with Paly’s head costume designers, An Tran and Vasim Jamil Fee

is you favorite part about costume Q: What design? able to create their costume and then A: Being when they see it they get super exited is the biggest challenge you face in Q: What costume designing? deadlines. I could never get the A: Definitely timing right. is something that you think a lot of people dont Q: What realize about costume design? is so much thought and deliberation put A: There behind each piece of clothing.

AN TRAN

is you favorite part about costume Q: What design?

A: The opportunities for artistic expression is the biggest challenge you face in Q: What costume designing? restraints while costuming and A: Budget keeping up with the fast pace in order to have costumes ready intime for shows

VASIM JAMIL FEE

Q: integral costuming is to convey the messages A: How of the show and characters personalities What is something that you think a lot of people don’t realize about costume design?

CULTURE ART • 29

B

ringing Art to the Elderly

30 • cmagazine.org

How student volunteers use art to reach senior citizens

A

mong the bustle of loud chatter, an elderly deaf senior citizen sits quietly alone, attentively watching others talk and paint. Seeing this, student volunteers help him watercolor, teaching him to use small hand gestures and guiding his hand in the movements of the delicate strokes. Gradually, he begins to seamlessly paint — smiling proudly.

“It’s gratifying seeing the elderly feel included, valued, and fully embrace their creativity,” a volunteer said.

Paly students host various art workshops at the Stevenson House in hopes of improving senior citizens’ mental well-being and combating social isolation by fostering new friendships among the elderly.

Helping as a Chinese translator during the workshops, The Stevenson House activities coordinator has witnessed the art workshops’ positive impacts on the elderly as most of them have limited social interactions on a daily basis.

“The senior citizens often told me that the student volunteers remind them of their grandchildren, so their presence is very heartwarming,” she said. “I was shocked to see those who don’t talk often enthusiastically talking and interacting with the student volunteers.”

As the senior citizens reflect on their experience participating in the art workshops, they share similar sentiments.

“Simply talking and spending time with others has been very fun because I don’t go out often,” an anonymous senior citizen said. “I have made many new friends through these workshops.”

Another senior citizen has shared similar sentiments, citing these workshops as a chance to learn more about fellow residents.

“I love listening to others’ diverse stories and ideas and sharing my own,” the senior citizen said. “I never knew some of my friends were so creative and good at art.”

Additionally, these art workshops help push the elderly to embrace creativity and explore their imagination.

“I’m not an artist, but I love being challenged through learning to sketch and watercolor,” a third senior said. “When I see my finished art pieces I feel proud of myself.”

The retirement house manager has noticed immense changes in the senior citizens and expresses her gratitude for the art workshops.

“Since many of the elderly here don’t go out often

or do many activities these workshops have immensely helped them find joy and something to look forward to,” the manager said.

“You’ve really shown them [senior citizens] the power of expression and art…They’ve become more confident and are not afraid to freely express themselves.”

In addition to participating in watercoloring, senior citizens are also inspired by musical performances put on by student performers. During a Christmas performance, Gunn sophomore Samuel Chen was singing Angels We Have Heard when the entire audience — including the senior citizens, retirement home workers, and other volunteer performers — sang along with him.

“I felt connected to them in a way,”

Chen said. “They were rience that you most likely couldn’t there, right with me.” get from only playing by yourself.”

Gunn Junior Stella Su Vocalist and junior Aiden Chen enwho also witnessed the spe- cial joys interacting with the senior citizens moment, found herself surprised by the post-performance. He enjoys listening to sudden interaction. the stories senior citizens share as well as “It felt like we were making music to- being complimented. gether rather than just performing for “I remember an Asian American lady them,” Su said. “When we began the per- who said she felt an immense amount of formance it was a little awkward, but the pride in seeing myself and others as sucsing-along during the [piece] definitely cessful and strong representatives of Asian helped ease the identity,” Chen atmosphere.” said.

Sophomore Sophmore “You’ve really shown them [senior Joanne Lin, Teresa Wang, citizens] the power of expression shares similar a fellow perand art…They’ve become more thoughts as former, looks confident and are not afraid to Su. Like Su, forward to confreely express themselves.”

Lin has been tinuing her volvolunteering in unteering pur- Retirement Home Manager Notes for All, a suits with Notes local initiative for All. Besides that hosts performances in various retire- playing the piano, Wang helps create postment homes, since late 2023. ers and other means of advertisement using Lin particularly appreciates the perfor- graphic design. mance experience she gains from volun“It’s fun to meet with new people and teering. have new experiences,” Wang said. “For “I’ve learned that as much as we should me, my work in the posters and programs practice, they [the seniors] aren’t expecting helps provide extra info for the other perperfection,” Lin said. “While there is some formers as well as the seniors… In general, pressure to do well, it’s not overwhelming.” I think the seniors enjoy seeing new faces Although she often plays solo selections, and having people play music for them.”

Lin enjoys playing chamber music because Chen shares a similar sentiment, citing it allows her to develop collaboration skills how performing for seniors has given him a and awareness. sense of gratitude for his music.

“When in a chamber group, I have to “I hope my impact is that of creating make sure to count and listen around me an atmosphere of joy and wonder outto ensure that we play together,” Lin said. side the banality of the world,” “Playing chamber music gives you an expe- Chen said.

CULTURE • 31

ART • 31

A compilation of photos from previous volunteering events hosted by Notes for All and Esther Chung. Photos courtesy of Esther Chung and Sophia Dong.

Photos courtesy of GORDON PARKS FOUNDATION

32 • cmagazine.org

Text and Design by SOPHIA DONG, ESTHER CHUNG, ISAAC TELYAZ• Art by ESTHER CHUNG

ART • 33

&

HERITAGE

Notes and lyrics can reveal expression and work toward racial justice

I

n the rich tapestry of human expression, music stands as a powerful and resonant thread weaving stories, emotions and identities. Within African American communities, music emerges not just as a rhythmic melody, but also as a profound form of cultural expression that mirrors the joys, struggles and triumphs of diverse experiences. From the soulful rhythms of gospel, to the electrifying beats of hip-hop, music is a medium through which African American voices can leave an indelible mark on history.

Fo r m e r Lucie Stern Professor Emeritus of psychology at Stanford U n i ve r s i t y,

34 34 •• cmagazine.org cmagazine.org

Claude Steele was born into segregated 1946 America. Reflecting on his childhood, he grew up in a society where practically all facets of daily life were strictly segregated by race. “[African Americans] lived in a very stern form of apartheid,” Steele said.

“There was this social revolution with the civil rights movement.”

If you listened to the radio during this time, you might hear the moving instrumentals of “A Change is Gonna Come” by Sam Cooke. On the song, Cooke’s soulful voice expresses a powerful story, one that Steele describes as one the strongest pieces of music at the time.

“It [‘A Change is Gonna Come’] gave us a picture of what it all meant,” Steele said. “Blacks wanted to leave the Jim Crow segregation of the south…in the late 50s and early 60s. This was a very exciting time for African Americans. The door was open, and all this [change] could happen.”

Once the 60s began, music skyrocketed in popularity in the United States. At this time, many of the new styles and genres of music were heavily influenced by African Americans.

“One truth about American society is that African Americans have been a major source of its art, and foremost in that, in its music,” Steele said. “The indigenous American music comes from African Americans.

That would be the blues.”

With roots stemming from the harsh enslavement of African Americans, the blues evolved as an adaptation of the work songs sung across plantations. As the blues grew in popularity within the United States, the lyrics continued to represent self-determination for African Americans, changing frequently to address social issues as they

arose in time.

“The blues were chronicling the stresses of life under slavery and then under apartheid,” Steele said.

The blues represented the resignation of African Americans at the time that music style became popular, according to Steele.

As music was black and white at the time, black music stations tended to play blues and soul music.

“That [type of music] captures, in the songs, in the lyrics, how bad life was under the apartheid system that we lived under,” Steele said.“[Cooke] was tired of living but he was afraid to die.”

Marvin Gaye was another revolutionary Black artist at the time whose music captured the struggles of African Americans, according to Steele. His soul music was undeniably one of the driving voices shedding light on the harsh realities of African American life.

“Marvin Gaye’s big album was ‘What’s Going On,’” Steele said. “We [African Americans] were in ascendance, and now we’re in this horrible situation where the only option is drug trafficking. I think music just reflects these major shifts.”

These trailblazing musicians leave a lasting impact on the music industry today. An impact that does not go unnoticed by high school students, including Chase Cobb.

Cobb, a senior at Palo Alto High School, is the co-president of Paly’s Black Scholars United club.

“I believe that music has always played a large role in advocating for social justice,” Cobb said. “This is largely due to the fact that music allows artists to express themselves in a way that connects them to so many people.”

Some of the most significant black art-

ists made their largest impact in the 1970s, which is when mainstream music began to call for change.

“Two genres that I can think of are hiphop and reggae,” Cobb said. “Especially reggae, because of artists like Bob Marley who used his music to advocate for equality, peace and really just liberation.”

Reggae artist Bob Marley had multiple songs that were not only hits but able to resonate with those who were struggling with overcoming oppression.

Marley’s well-known militant anthem, “Get Up, Stand Up,” was written as a call to action over the immense poverty in Haiti. The message of the song is clear: people should stand up for their rights even if no one else will.

The theme of standing up for your rights is prominent in not only Marley’s music but in many other musicians’ art too.

Prince, an American singer-songwriter, is a prime example of having songs that advocate for civil rights.

Prince’s song “Baltimore” was written as a protest song after the death of Freddie Gray, when he died after sustaining spinal injuries while in police custody. Although the song is about a somber topic, it’s contrasted by the upbeat tune which calls for change, hope and peace. “Baltimore” incorporates the hardships African American go through and emphasizes how young people have the power to call for change.

As a rich, expressive art form, music paves the way for artists to articulate their true feelings.

Instances where music has played a significant role in allowing black communities to express social justice concerns are still an ongoing phenomenon.

“One of the [current] examples that I can think of is the Black Lives Matter movement in 2020,” Cobb said. “I remember seeing so many videos of protests where people were playing music. I remember looking at videos on twitter of people really being united, dancing and laughing.”

In a world of highs and lows for African Americans, artists use their platforms to represent those in communities of color. The Black Lives Matter movement has been crucial to communities of color in the United States for many years, and lead to certain artists’ tracks being unofficially claimed by this movement.

“This [music] has also allowed Americans to become more connected,” Cobb said.

During the 2020 Black Lives

Matter movement, life in America was dif- phasizes how vast the styles of African ficult for many African Americans and mu- American music are, even within the same sic became an essential factor that brought genre. families and communities together.

While some artists use rap to further aid Songs like “Alright” by Kendrick Lamar, social justice causes, the commercialization “Be Free” by J. Cole and “Chains” by of the genre can also hinder advances Usher have been adoptmade to breaking down ed as anthems for historical stereo“One truth about the Black Lives types about AfriAmerican society is Matter movecan Americans. ment by many Paly history that African Americans allies and memteacher Justin have been a major bers.

Cronin nosource of its...music.”

“As far as hip ticed the shift in hop, I think of themes of popartists like NWA, ular rap music as - Claude Steele, former Kendrick Lamar the genre became professor and Public Enemy, who more mainstream. have all created music speaking “Record companies decided out against social justice issues and often that rap was big money, so you get a lot of faced backlash because of it,” Cobb said. rap where the videos are basically half naKendrick Lamar was the first ever rap- ked women and cars,” Cronin said. “That per to win the highly-coveted Pulitzer prize, becomes the mold for a lot of rap music an award based purely on the importance that comes out [after].” and impact of his lyrics. His fourth studio Condensing all African American music album “DAMN.” is what allowed him to into one category not only affects the views obtain this award, primarily because of that others have on African Americans, but how well the lyrit also diminishes the ics captured everyday issues for African Americans. Lamar receiving t h i s award em-

ART ART • 35

true value that the music holds.

The medium of music itself is particularly effective in hooking listeners with sound, and then educating listeners with lyrics, especially when those listening are unfamiliar with the themes of the songs.

“For music, you like it before you recognize what it’s about,” Cronin said.

Music is a unique method of advocacy, one that strays from the more traditional speech, protest or march.

“Music infiltrates the mind and allows ideas to be fully understood, as opposed to somebody standing and lecturing to you trying to convince you of their political stance,” Cronin said.

As Cronin mentions, music has a way of engaging and drawing in an audience that different methods may not be as accessible.

Beyond its enjoyable melodies, Paly choir teacher Michael Najar believes that music’s significance dives deeper than an art form. It is a powerful channel for connections.

“When our bodies begin to move… we’re experiencing that commu-

36 • cmagazine.org

nity together,” Najar said. “That commu- violence against black and brown bodies nal experience is what makes life interest- when Trayvon Martin, a Florida teen, was ing, valuable and beautiful.” fatally shot by a neighborhood watch volNajar is one of many music teachers unteer after being unjustly racially profiled. who sees music as an incredibly valu“I remember so able art form for forming commany people reaching munities. out, expressing a sinMusic is like a Stephen Hinton, the cere connection to conversation; chair of Stanford’s the song because it Department of Muwas inspired also by everybody is saying sic and professor of a sort of chant that music, recognizes something different but was being used in a the importance of they’re all contributing lot of protests,” Lá the connections Rel said. “ I was then to the whole thing.” that humans make asked by a number of through music. different organizers and “There’s a cer- Stephen Hinton, arts activists, organizatain way in which tions to incorporate it in a professor music functions to variety of ways.” bind the community and Her music has been support the congregation and gathering [of played at social justice events, demonstrapeople],” Hinton said. tions and music videos that have been disThe meaning of music goes deep- cussed at the Every 28 Hours Play Festival, er than just simply lyrics, as Hinton ex- named after the statistic that every 28 hours plains. a black person is killed through state sanc“The thing about music is that it’s not tioned violence. just singing,” Hinton said. “Music is like “People have expressed the way that it a conversation; everybody is saying some- captures the anxiety and the tension, but thing different but they’re all contributing also the sort of righteous anger and the sort to the whole thing.” of triumphant response of, we cannot rest Taking influence from musical until there’s collective freedom,” Lá Rel powerhouses such as Nina Simone said. “There’s collective liberation in seeing and Stevie Wonder, Jessica Lá Rel, people have such strong and emotional rean African American soul re- actions, but also being fired up and ready to cording artist and Stanford respond in positive ways.” alumnus, uses her voice to Lá Rel expressed that her songs “Here speak on issues she is pas- Comes the Sun” and “War Love” often ressionate about. onate with survivors of sexual assault and “In terms of the domestic abuse as it feels like a preventive types of stories that I anthem for them to operate in their power aim to tell through and feel seen. my music and the While Lá Rel’s music often has an extypes of topics that I plicit connection to themes of social unrest, try to delve into, my music itself implicitly provides a sense of focus is on unearth- empowerment orescape through sonic stoing lesser known sto- rytelling. ries, really bringing “The songs that aren’t necessarily alto light injustices or ways about social unrest are still about peoexperiences that are ple’s lived experiences and are about movhappening to underrep- ing through life in ways that show love and resented groups of peo- care to ourselves and to other people,” Lá ple,” Lá Rel said.

Rel said. “So even when we’re not necesShe was work- sarily saying we need to go march, organize ing on her song, “#We- or boycott, even when they’re not saying it cantbreathe” based explicitly, they’re still talking about a qualon state sanc- ity of living that is very much so anchored t i o n e d in love.”

70s

“Get Up, Stand Up”

by Bob Marley Marley’s powerful hit captured the economic struggles in Haiti, which had ignited a spark in him, and this song reached a vast audience of Americans who wished to help.

90s

80s

“Fight the Power”

by Public Enemy “Fight the Power” brought the spotlight in the music industry back to rap.

Through powerful and angry lyrics, Public Enemy demanded that its young audience fight back against racial discrimination, though it suggested the use of violence which gained heavy criticism.

“Changes” by Tupac “Changes” referenced all the daily struggles that African Americans faced during the 90s, focusing on their mistreatment by the police. Topping charts internationally allowed for worldwide attention to this large issue which Tupac called out.

10s

“Alright” by Kendrick Lamar As the awareness about police brutality increased, “Alright” became a common protest chant because of its hopeful lyrics.

00s

“Police State” by dead prez dead prez used strong lyrics to address the systemic issues that African Americans faced and ensured emphasis on the poor crimincal justice system and how it too disadvantaged African Americans.

Text and design by MARY HENDERSON, FALLON PORTER and AMALIA TORMALA • Art by MARY HENDERSON, FALLON PORTER and CHARLIE WANG

ART • 37

cmagazine.eics@gmail.com 38 • cmagazine.org

hometown nostalgia often plants itself in music

MUSIC •• 39 39 MUSIC

Text and design by LILY DANIEL and ALICE SHEFFER • Photos by LILY DANIEL and ALICE SHEFFER • Art

by LILY WILLIAMS ometowns are an integral part of i t ’ s songs I sang with my friends was ‘True almost every adolescence. Many pushed Blue’ by Boygenius,” Kumar said. “I associpeople spend time reminiscing me to fulfill my best ate that song pretty heavily with Mountain over the nostalgia for the place they called capabilities,” Kumar said. “That’s how I’ve View because now, every time I listen to it, home and the people they connected with gotten so dedicated to my craft. I’m just try- I think of all the places we’ve performed during their childhood. Those who are ing to show my dedication to music.” together.” musically inclined tend to draw inspiration Different artists can be motivated by Also, Zabel is interested in the simple from their hometown, whether intentional- the same area in different ways. Mariam things in life that people see every day, such ly or not.

Kubursi, a senior at Gunn High School, as high school. Due to the lack of high Ella Stevens, a junior at Interlochen loves to make music. She creates soft-pop school-aged celebrities, there are only a Arts Academy, is majoring in songwrit- songs, with the occasional detour to few popular songs that accurately reping. Native to Charlotte, North Carolina, country. Kubursi pulls inspiration resent a teenage perspective. Zabel and a frequent Ashefrom Palo Alto to finds joy in writing about the ville visitor, she makes create her own things she has a connection “I’m just Americana folk-rock unique stories. with on a day-to-day basis, trying to show music. Stevens calls it “Palo Alto is a such as an average day at my dedication “country, but not quite very simple area, school. country.” but when I try to write “I wrote a song called to music.”

“Asheville influmusic, I try to be as intricate ‘Passing Period,’ and I realized that it’s kind enced me more [than as I can,” Kubursi said. “Palo of cool because all students can connect Charlotte] since most Alto’s a good blank slate, but and relate to it,” Zabel said. “I write a lot of my family is from it also gives me a lot to work about school and experiences at school. I there,” Stevens said. “There’s a lot of blue- with. I take what I have, interpret it, and think that adds personality to my songs, grass and folk [music]. Being in Asheville spit it back out again with more details.” and it helps me when I’m stuck.” and being around so much bluegrass made For other artists, living in their homeOn the same note, Stevens is influenced me really interested in the ‘Americana’ towns has shaped the subject matter of by her natural surroundings, such as the genre.” their songs. Charlotte Zabel is a junior at North Carolina mountains and the forests While some songwriters are influenced Oakwood School in Los Angeles who en- of Interlochen Arts Academy. by their hometown in terms of the lyrics joys making indie-pop music, “Since my “The way I tell they write, others are influenced by their though her genre fluctuates somemusic is a lot stories has a mentality. One of these people is Disha Ku- times. In Zabel’s music, she finds more ‘campmar, a Mountain View High School senior herself leaning towards writing fire-side,’ it has lot to do with a who sings and plays the violin. She’s part of about more niche topics. more natural her school’s orchestra and choir, where her “There’s a wide range of op- specific environment.” imagery,” Stepeers inspire her to put time into her skills. tions around me when it comes vens said. “The “I would say that since Mountain View to music,” Zabel said. “When I’m way I tell stories is such a competitive place in every aspect, trying to find something new to has a lot to do write about, I find myself drawn to ma- with the specific environment and where I terialism and Hollywood. What consti- am when I write them.” tutes a ‘valuable’ life or job influences Instead of the natural surroundings me because I see it a lot.” around her, Kubursi finds inspiration from Similarly, Kumar appreciates her childhood home. From the paint to the music scene of her home- the smell of the house, each unique aspect town. Beyond just the popular creeps its way into her lyrics. Past just nosgenres in an area, Kumar talgia, the sentiment of more recent years is finds that experiences a huge inspiration. with specific songs and “My sisters and I grew up in the house, artists can tie them to and there’s so many things that show we’ve a location. This comes lived here for so long and grew up here,” naturally for her as she Kubursi said. “Going to college next year, often attends open I’ve been talking about my house more. It’s mics and other live that bittersweet feeling of leaving and music events with her trying to grab onto as many things as friends.

I can and put them in my songs so I “One of the last can remember how it feels.”

40 • cmagazine.org

listen to some songs about hometowns!

In the same way geographical surround- in as many ways as they can,” Kumar “It feels ings can be vital to songwriting, the specific said. “Sometimes, that can be a little good people who live in a musician’s hometown stressful, but I think of it as a priviare important. Whether directly or indi- lege.” to be known rectly, the people a musician surrounds The communities surrounding muso well.” themselves with change how they perceive sic tend to expect one thing that’s tried their work. Comand true. In an age where munities can also so many things have been “It’s that serve as role models done, developing original feel a connection is to describe something bittersweet for musicians, not work is challenging. in detail so listeners can immerse themjust inspiration.

“Sometimes, I feel limited feeling of selves in the atmosphere.

“I have so many when it comes to writing or leaving.”

“When I’m writing about my neighborpeople who I can producing songs because hood, it’s always helpful to use learn from when I want to make things something concrete you can it comes to mak[music] I know evsee,” Zabel said. “Sometimes, ing music,” Kumar erybody will like,” I write from someone else’s persaid. “A big factor in how I’ve made music Kubursi said. “Sometimes, I’m spective because it’s much needis that I’ve watched other people do it. I’ve scared to go above and beyond ed when you’re always writing learned directly from the music spheres I’m with my ideas. But, as much as from your perspective.” in.” it limits me, it [the limitation] helps Hometowns will always remain Experimenting with instruments also me because I know what people in music, no matter how they show personalizes a song to the artist’s unique like.” up. Someone’s adolescence is a very imstyle. Kubursi mainly produces pop music, On a similar note, writing about homeportant passage of time that shapes them but she frequently tries out different instru- towns in a nuanced and creative way can for the rest of their life. ments. be tricky—it’s all “Connecting songs to “I try to incorporate my love of pia- about finding the “All hometowns look hometowns is really cool no and random instruments—things you balance between because everybody has a little different wouldn’t normally hear in pop,” Kubursi nostalgia and one, and all hometowns and feel said. “I used an organ in ‘Harder Than homesickness. Stelook a little different and the Rain.’ I want them [interesting instru- vens’ new song, a little different.” feel a little different,” Zaments] to make an appearance because it’s “Mojo” (coming bel said. taking what everyone knows and adding out May 16, 2024), While musicians pull your own sprinkle of style.” is based on stories inspiration from incredBeing around other songwriters can her uncle told her when she was younger. ibly varied sections of life, there is always produce a feeling of solidarity about the art She weaves in appreciation for her family, something to feel when reminiscing about behind creating music, such as finding sim- who impact her music to this day. one’s childhood experience. ilarities in how they produce music.

“It [Mojo] is about family, music, and “My hometown pulls me right back “My music gives me a lot more empa- how my family has connected me to music, in—I can’t escape it,” Stevens said. thy and insight into how nature, and really everything I do in life,” other writers look at Stevens said. “A lot of imagery has to do the world because with my home, like my Subaru with stickers I’m more curious of all the mountains I’ve climbed.” about other people’s Physical locations that are prevalent in ELLA STEVENS lives,” Zabel said. every town also add to the nostalgia of @ellastevensmusic Another influential part a hometown song. Zabel explained Ella Stevens of songwriting is the artist’s that the way to have listeners community. For Kumar, it’s choir and orchestra. For Stevens, DISHA KUMAR it’s the community in Asheville. @dishakumar04 “It [music] just brings everyone together—that’s what makes it really special and unique to where I live,” Stevens said.

MARIAM KUBURSI Though the Americana music scene is @mariamkubursi very supportive, other, more stressful envimariam kubursi ronments can be equally beneficial for creativity.

“At Mountain View High School, our CHARLOTTE ZABEL choir is very dedicated and competitive, so @digitaldittydiary a lot of people are trying to get involved

MUSIC • 41

TUNES Many popular artists change throughout their careers, as exemplified by the evolution from their first song to their most recent

Through Time

I

n the ever-evolving realm of music, artists constantly undergo to become very repetitive and no longer a true representation of reinvention as they develop their styles and transition through the artist’s sound, as their goal is now to appeal to a larger and less genres during their careers. This trend of constantly evolving niche audience.

“I want to be true to myself, but at the end of the day, it one’s musical style is due to each artist’s personal growth and presis a business and it is catered towards your audience just like every sures to keep up with the dynamic shifts in the industry.

As artists navigate their careers, social media can intro- other business,” Chan said. “Unfortunately, that’s how it is in muduce unprecedented scrutiny and fan expectations, amplifying sic.”

When Chan first started making music, he found it was both the pressure to innovate and the challenge to stay authentic,in more difficult than he expected to create something so personal, a world dominated by so many different voices. but also influenced by those around him. However, he found that “As you grow you also try to stay authentic because when inspiration could come from others in the industry. you’re influenced by the world around you, sometimes you miss “Back then, most of my music was similar style-wise and out on parts of yourself,” Caleb Chan, Paly Class of 2023 gradulyrically to my favorite artists at the time,” ate, said.

Chan said. “From there, I could branch Popular music is constantly splitoff and experiment with the styles that I ting into different sub-genres. The world resonated with.” of music has experienced the rise and fall “I feel like a lot of artists Paly sophomore Scarlett Frick listens to of happy, upbeat pop songs from the earwill be strategic in the music daily, so she has followed many artly 2000s. Rap music’s popularity has also ists as they have grown throughout their way they release music or risen as popular artists such as Drake and careers.

Travis Scott pave the way for contempochange their music genre “I feel like a lot of artists will be strarary rappers. to appeal in a certain way tegic in the way they release music or The fusion of musical genres change their music genre to appeal in a has become increasingly common. Howto their fan base.” certain way to their fan base,” Frick said. ever, the desire for artists to create what’s The constant need to appeal to fans popular, instead of what they want to crecan cause artists to end up creating songs ate, is a common issue. that may be trending at the moment but As a small music artist, Chan stray away from timeless music that people struggles with this problem. He has had a will listen to for many years. lot of trial and error regarding what he should put out.

Miley Cyrus, mentioned by Frick, is a classic example of “There are few artists that stay true to what they want an artist who has changed significantly throughout their career. to produce, and generally stray away from conventionally weird “When she was younger she grew up on Disney Channel, things,” Chan said. “I want to be true to myself, but at the end of with a lot of her father’s influence too, so she was very country and the day, it is a business and has to be catered toward my audience innocent,” Frick said. “Then as she grew up, she kind of evolved just like any other business, even if I don’t want it to be.” more into a pop and rock phase.”

With the rise of social media, artists have direct access The evolution of Cyrus’ career shows how to fans’ opinions and critiques surrounding new releases. This artists’ first music can be drastically different adds additional pressure for musicians to be constantly reinventing from their most recent material. Being in themselves to stay interesting and relevant. her early 30’s, she is still young and her “In the past, I feel like it was very different when artists music will likely change as she condidn’t have social media,” Paly Junior Ella Huang said. “There wasn’t that instant sense of feedback or gratification, now it’s just so out there and they are much more exposed.”

Many artists struggle to create something original and unique under the pressure of following music trends. This causes lots of music

Scarlett Frick, 10

SCAN HERE!

42 • cmagazine.org

Text by MAEVA HERBERT-PAZ, KAYLEY KO and JAKE PAPP • Design by MAEVA HERBERT-PAZ and KAYLEY KO • Art by SABELA CHELBA and KAYLEY KO

THE BEATLES

Where they began: Twist and Shout Morst recent release: Now and Then

MILEY CYRUS Where she began: Party in the USA Recent release: Used to be Young

tinues to create. Cyrus exemplifies the idea that music follows a to show his support parallel path of maturity as her fans and herself grow up. towards his favorite However, this might not be the path that others want to artists while contributfollow. For smaller artists with more niche listeners, a bigger change ing towards healthy social could prove more of a risk that is hurtful instead of helpful. norms in the music industry.

“Sometimes they could be afraid that if they have too “I have been able to support many of big of a change the audience will be disinterested or not like the my favorite artists by attending their concerts, such as Drake, Tyler change,” Huang said “If their listeners are fans because of their The Creator and Travis Scott,” Ozgen Said. “Seeing them perprevious music, changing too much can make them not interested form live and the atmosphere they create for each venue has alanymore.” lowed me to understand the unique fan base and artistic creativity Even so, many artists with the most successful careers each artist has.” have kept their fans enticed by mixing it up. Artists who have had Ozgen has followed the careers of many artists and has extreme success changing their music include been able to see their change in artistic prefhousehold names such as Taylor Swift, erence, fans, venues and how they deal Drake, Miley Cyrus, Bob Dylan and The with the pressures of society. As artists Beatles. continue to enter the music industry, the “I want to be true to myself, “I started listening to Taylor when challenge of social prevalence and unbut at the end of the day, it I was very young, and at that point she was wanted attention can be hard to escape. is a business and it is catered producing more country music,” Huang “I have seen firsthand artists get trash said. “As I grew up, I listened as her music thrown at them and yelled at while pertowards your audience just gradually transitioned more into pop, and forming,” Ozgen said. “I think people like every other business.” then over COVID, she transitioned more expect a lot out of artists when they are into a folk singer. I actually enjoyed the performing and to see fans treat them so change as I was able to relate a lot more disgracefully can be hard to see.” with her newer songs.”

From small creators to global superThe ability to have a direct relastars, artists navigate complex expectionship with your fan base is crucial for tations, trends and pressures, all while artists, as they can have a great impact on striving to maintain authenticity and arthe lives of fans across the world is a huge aspect of motivation tistic integrity. for many artists.

“Musical fluctuations aren’t necessarily a bad thing,” Through social media, concerts and other events, fans Frick said. “If anything, it’s helpful to the artist. If it reflects their can show their support and contribute to the success of an art- personal growth and change in maturity, then it allows for them to ist. Paly Class of 2023 graduate, Drew Ozgen, has been able have a sound that is more authentic to themselves.”

Caleb Chan, alumnus

MUSIC • 43

44 • cmagazine.org