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VOICES

EXCLUSIVE MAGAZINE

January 2024

BRONCO PLAYERS GIVE THEIR SAY

THE FRESHWATER BOYS WHEN CLASSIC AND MODERN STYLES INSPIRE

11 Issue 3

CONTENTS 3 Orchestra An interview with violinist Ethan Hochberg

6 Fashion Recapping the fast-fashion vs. couture debate + modern eyeliner trends

9 Theater Giving RB Theater the representation they deserve

16 Art Taking a look at student artwork in comparison to iconic works

18 Social Issues A discussion on the topic of teachers’ wages

11 AN INTERVIEW WITH THE FRESHWATER BOYS

16 18

13 Meet the Band 14 Where It All Began 15 Creative Visions

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AN INTERVIEW WITH VIOLINIST ETHAN HOCHBERG As a part of our music issue, it was impossible for us to pass up the opportunity to speak with an individual within one of RB’s Performing Arts programs. RB Orchestra has shown time and time again just how hard they work with their breathtaking performances. Ethan Hochberg, a violinist of 14 years (3 and 1/2 of those being within the RB Orchestra program), sits down to speak to us about his motivations and experiences. “The orchestra program is great,” he says. “everyone is super funny and amazing to be around, and Mr. Christy, our director, creates such a welcoming and energetic environment that encourages everyone to play to their full potential.” Being within the arts department myself, I hear about orchestra very often, and only good things. I ask Ethan about the orchestra’s relationship with RB. “The program has definitely gotten more and more recognition over the years that I have been a part of the program, which is something I love to see. Of course it would be amazing to have even more support because that’s what helps us grow, but even with the current

levels I am very pleased. RB gives a lot of attention to the arts department, and we are very grateful for that as it has helped shape us into the ensemble we are today. “ Musicians in the orchestra program at RB are often given opportunities to stand out within the state and the industry. Individuals are given the chance to audition for All State, which is a conference in which music educators all throughout the state meet in Sacramento to attend various experiences and events, with one of the highlight events being the honor orchestras. Hochberg is one of the very few from RB chosen to participate in this event. “Students submit auditions to a panel of judges who score the recordings and decide whether or not a person is fit to participate in an ensemble,” he explains. “Because of the sheer volume of violinists in the state with such limited slots, getting into this program is extremely difficult.” I ask him about the audition process. “I had to make sure to get my recordings the most perfect they could be, and that took months of preparation and nit-picking,

ORCHESTRA HIGHLIGHT 3

Article by Photography provided by Ella Palmer Jack Johnson, Ethan Hochberg, @rbsorchestra

Hochberg and Johnson pictured at December All State

PLAYING FOR PASSION but I was able to secure a spot in the orchestra. I’m very excited to play at All State, as I will be able to meet musicians from all over the state and play super cool music.” With an accomplishment this big, one must face a set of obstacles. “A significant obstacle when trying to improve is definitely just convincing myself that something I’ve worked on has reached an acceptable level,” Hochberg says. “I’m always pushing myself to be “more perfect” and oftentimes fail to realize that it’s not as bad as I make it seem.” “And do you plan to study music in college?’ I ask the high school senior. I do plan on continuing music throughout my future,” he clarifies, “however, it will never be as much as I am doing this year. My dream career is to become a pilot,

so I will have to spend most of my time practicing flying as opposed to violin.” To close off our interview, I ask Ethan about some of his musical inspirations. “Mr. Christy, my orchestra director, is a huge source of inspiration because he’s opened my eyes to a whole new way of viewing classical music. My private teacher, Ms. Reiner, is also very inspiring because of her experience in the musical world and everything she has taught me about violin.” “Any soloists you admire?” I ask. “Probably Ray Chen, because of his unmatched emotional connection to pieces and lively personality.” I am curious about his favorite pieces to play with orchestra. “My top two would be Tchaikovsky Symphony No. 5, and And Birds Are Still by Takashi Yoshimatsu.”

Winter Concert, December 2023

CODA December All State Symphony Orchestra, pictured by Trombonist Jack Johnson, who was also successful in his audition for All State this year

Hochberg playing violin

FASHION

The Resurrection of Quilted Purses

FOREVER 21 “QUILTED FAUX LEATHER SHOULDER BAG”

VAILLANT

POORLY MADE CHEAP ALTERNITIVES THAT HIT THE MARKET FAR BEFORE VAILLANT HIT CONSUMER MARKET>>.

IN SHORT? YES.

KATE SPADE “BOXXY CROSSBODY”

Does Fast Fashion Affect Couture Fashion? MARCIA

H&M “QUILTED SHOULDER BAG”

CHANEL 225 (1955)

THIS TREND HAS HAD ON-AND-OFF RESURGENCES FOR DECADES. THE FIRST APPEARANCE OF IT IS GENERALLY CREDITED TO THE CHANEL 2.55 BAG MADE IN THE 1950’S. IT HAS HAD ANOTHER RECENT RESURGENCE ON THE RUNWAY AND ON THE STREET. CHANEL HAS RETURNED TO ITS ROOTS WITH NEW VARIATIONS OF THE BAG, LOUIS VUITTON AND KATE SPADE WITH A NEW SPIN ON THE CLASSIC. CONSUMER FASHION BRANDS SUCH AS H&M, FOREVER 21, AND VIRTUALLY ANY WILL PIGGYBACK OFF OF THESE BRANDS TO PUSH A VARIETY OF DOUPS.

Shein, as awful as they are with their horrific employment practices and appalling disregard for the environment, have become one of the most impactful brands on recent clothing trends. This is because of us. Our 2020 fashion taste has worked its way up to couture which will trickle back down to us next season. We can observe many elements of this in Vaillant’s Paris haute Couture show. In the multicolor lace of a slant hemline dress and the lace embellishments along a shirt's V neckline. In Marcia’s Paris Couture show we see printed patterns of bows and groovy curves that you cannot distinguish between the clothes that had such virality during the pandemic. This does not undermine the craftsmanship of these 5 designers, as it is just an interesting phenomenon.

EXPLORING THIS SEASON’S DIMENSIONAL DIMONDS MAKEUP ARTISTRY

ff-the-face aspects have become a staple in our recent makeup trends, either imitating a 3D-type look or adding new creative aspects to our day-to-day looks. Much of this can be attributed to being comfortable online. When you see other people doing something, you gain the confidence to try out new styles as well. It’s a fast tracked version of magazines to tell you what is popular and what “everyone is doing.” No matter what, you are always encouraged to be yourself!

NATURAL BEAUTY

e have been embracing natural beauty, the “no makeup- makeup” look has been slowly replaced with an emphasis on skincare and the understanding that everyone has natural beauty.

PULL THE LINER

he preferred liner shape has shifted from 2016 glam, to 2020 butterflies and now to 2024 swords. The popular use of eyeliner in today’s world connects back to the cultural significance of Egyptian eyeliner art. Now, we see eyeliner as a dramatic form of self expression.

Models: Eden West & Freya Zook Makeup Artist: Rayne Wenger Photographer: Madeline Oakley 6

Entertainment

100 Years of Magic From whimsical dramas to jaw-dropping performances, the art of entertainment has been around for centuries. No matter how charming, comical, or intriguing- entertainment always has a lasting impact on its audience. Perhaps no entertainment has as much of an impact as Disney movies. It seems like Disney movies and characters have been around forever. After all, who can remember a childhood without Mickey and his friends, enchanting princesses, or epic adventures across the globe? Disney is a timeless form of entertainment that has touched the hearts of millions and influenced our world in ways barely imaginable. The company proved that with its biggest ever celebration: Disney 100 Years of Wonder. This year, the Walt Disney Company, founded in 1923, turned 100 years old. Disney has been celebrating this around the world with new merchandise, additions to theme parks, and re-releasing movies.

By: Allegra Tea, Geena Nandhra, Saman Ali

We asked RBHS students what their favorite Disney movie was. These were the most popular.

Although these larger-than-life celebrations are filled with magic, not all Disney fans were left with the same sense of wonder. The company’s recent decline in popularity has led some people to question Disney’s next steps. Let’s see what Broncos have to say about this debate.

Entertainment

ParT ParT of of That That world world Disney’s live action of the Little Mermaid starring Halle Bailey was loved by both critics and Disney fans all over the world. The film reached seventh among the highest grossing films of 2023, and made over $569 million in box office sales. For the most part, the film’s plot followed along the lines of the original movie made in 1989. However, one of the biggest differences between the original and the remake was the casting of the main role for Ariel. The monumental part was given to African-American actress and singer Halle Bailey. Upon hearing news of a black actress being casted as the lead back in 2019, some criticized Disney for not casting a white female lead similar to the cartoon. While there was some negative speculation about this decision, there was tons of support for the AfricanAmerican actress. In the end, Halle’s actual performance in the movie was complimented by many and her acting left viewers wishing for more.

Overall, the cultural diversity featured in the Disney franchise has been little to none. This fact serves disappointing on many levels, since a world-renowned company like Disney influences millions of children on a daily basis. However, by casting a black actress as the lead of the movie, Disney opens up a world of inclusivity. It shows little kids around the globe that they can be whatever they want, princess or not, no matter what their appearance is. This is a huge step for Disney, and hopefully one towards a more diverse and accepting future. 8

THE

Addams Family B a c k s t a g e

RB Bronco Players

ll cast members gather outside for a brief warm up before their closing night. Hair pieces are quickly pinned on, and additional skirts or accessories are left behind as the group rushes to the circle gathering outside. You can hear the low buzz of 30 voices warming up, mumbling ‘doe rah me’s’ and ‘fa so la tee doe’s’. Eden West places long pearls around her neck and nods over to the crowd. “The best part is the finished product,” she tells me. “Everyone just comes

together and it’s so great.” Cast-mate Camryn Tucker, who plays Grandma in the show, agrees. “And closing is the best show. There’s always so much more energy.” Eden plays an ancestor of The Addams Family, her 1980s costume based on Madonna’s ‘Like a Virgin’ music video. Each ancestor is costumed specifically to match an era, which brought the show to life. I ask her what her favorite Madonna song is. “Papa Don’t Preach,” she says with a smile.

DESPITE THE GLAMOUR, A LACK OF RESPECT Although Camryn loved being in Addams Family, she says that the show is tied at best with April 2022's ‘Freaky Friday.’ “Freaky Friday holds a very special place in my heart. Although, Addams was so amazing because it really shows how much the program has grown in such a small amount of time.” Being backstage, I noticed just how much the program really did grow. Sets and costumes are amazing, and so many more students are involved. Observing all three nights, I grew frustrated by the lack of support the RB Bronco Players faced even after putting together two amazing shows within the first three months of the year. Shows don’t sell out the way that dance concerts do, despite them both being a wonderfully entertaining event to attend. I mention this backstage to Eden West, Emma Vermeer, and Theresa Skiano, and they agree. “Our shows are kind of skipped past when mentioning successes of the month. I notice it with band, too. Even though people praise them for how many awards they have won, very little students or staff actually go out of their way to attend events or see what it is that makes them so amazing.” “It’s frustrating,” One of the show’s leads, Theresa Skiano, adds on. “Student leadership programs at RB are quick to post about and support larger programs on campus, although theater is consistently ignored.” Crowds at class previews are disrespectful, and talk over events happening within the play. In the past, students have been catcalled, yelled over, and ignored during show previews. RB students’ immature lack of respect for the performing arts is shown through their responses to the breathtaking performances in which they are presented with.

B a c k s t a g e

Photography by Ella Palmer

FRILLS & FEATHERS

Cast members busily move across the stage in preparation for their closing night. Before the overture starts to begin every show, cast members pace around behind the curtains, illuminated by a green and pink lighting. Additional powder is added to faces, in hopes that makeup will hold for the show. Extra bobby pins are stuck into hair feathers. Right behind the curtain’s opening, a calm Morticia and Gomez Addams take a deep breath and the crowd grows silent.

(continued) Despite these past obstacles, an actor’s job is to put on a performance which will positively impact their audience. The group heads back inside and stage left’s Assistant Stage Manager, Kadence Stevens, calls for 5 minutes to curtain. “Thank you five,’ actors mumble back excitedly. I assist Eden as she touches up her eyeliner. As a last comment before curtains, Eden acknowledges the work of a fellow cast member. “My favorite character in the show is Wednesday,” she says. “Theresa (Skiano) does an amazing job at capturing her determination, passion, and all that she is about.” Mal and Alice Beineke, played by Autumn Lowe and Minjun Kim. (left)

The Freshwater Boys AFTER SIFTING THROUGH

band names and members, The Freshwater Boys are now musically stronger than ever. The altrock band speaks to us about their ambitions, strengths and obstacles. After sitting with the three of them and talking about their path in music, we can safely say that The Freshwater Boys are some of the greatest songwriters here at RB.

PICTURED (LEFT TO RIGHT): KARTER BELL, GIAN ALVAREZ, AND JOSH CHAMBERS

EPITOME OF MUSICIANS: THE FRESHWATER BOYS BY: AURORA-MARIE MUNOZ PHOTOS: MADELINE OAKLEY

COMPOSED OF Josh Chambers (lead vocals, bass), Gian Alvarez (guitarist), and Karter Bell (drums), The Freshwater Boys are a talented and dedicated trio created in December 2022. As I sat down with them for an interview, I got to know not only of their work ethic, but also of each member’s own personality and what they bring to the band. Josh’s personal connection with music along with Gian’s lyricism and Karter’s enthusiastic energy all contribute to the undeniable appeal of The Freshwater Boys. Prior to asking The Freshwater Boys to be the cover page of Voices January 2024 edition, I had come to know Josh through our shared CSMM class. Gian and Karter were introduced to me just before the interview began. Despite this, they kept the atmosphere comfortable, quickly revealing the band’s playful dynamics through light banter. The interview was a fun one, filled with intriguing insights with just as much wit and charisma from each member of the band. Our interview began with the boys telling me about their roles in the band and how each member found a passion in music.

Meet the band AM: In The Freshwater Boys, do you have any set roles? JC: I think every band has a leader in a sense. I take on the role of the de facto leader. Most of the music is written by either me or Gian, we kind of split up the writing role. It’s a group process. Once we have a complete version of a song, with lyrics and chords and such, that’s when I send it to Gian…And I send [it] to Karter.

GA: Yeah, for fun! JC: For funsies, write that in. ALL: (laughs) KB: So, for me, I started drumming around the same time. I think eighth grade. At first I did it because I was bored. I kept with it because it

“As a songwriter or anything creative, KB: Yeah, exactly! you take inspiration GA: My job until my solo, is from everything you to basically add seasoning almost. hear and see” Nothing too much, but just like, you know, - Josh Chambers AM: So it’s like you each write your own parts to a song?

something that’s obviously there and it makes it more to the song.

JC: And then Karter’s job is to give it the backbone that the song needs. KB: I’m also here to sit, and look pretty. ALL: (laughs) GA: Yeah, he’s very good at that part. AM: How long have you guys been playing music, or been interested in music? GA: For me it started in eighth grade, I started playing the guitar. A year later I found out that Josh also played guitar, and he always talked about writing songs together and doing this and that. I didn’t really take it serious until the summer of sophomore year. I play 10-12 hours a day. AM: 10-12 hours a day for the band? GA: No, not for the band. When I say play, I mean just having a guitar in my hand.

KB: For funsies!

was kind of a way for me to move, I’m always like tapping. wanted to put my energy into something that would sound good when I tap.

JC: For me, I think music is genetic. I come from a family of musicians, so when I was younger, I’ve always had a connection to music. I play seven instruments, if you remember from the first day [of CSMM]. I have perfect pitch as well. I was six when my mom put me in guitar lessons and I went to three of them, then dropped out. [Mainly] because I came home not really learning anything. Then I stumbled across The Beatles and I wanted to learn guitar. I’d write songs, but they were horrible! And I was horrible at singing. GA: They’re not, everything he writes is great. JC: Not when I was in sixth grade! And then I got into Bob Dylan, which made me a better songwriter. I got better at guitar and piano over time, learning about music in general. I’d say, it was probably when I joined the band when I started taking it really seriously. I went from practicing an hour a day, to pretty much always practicing in my freetime.

Where it all began Although The Freshwater Boys did not initially start out as the three of them, the band was able to find an identity of their own that fit what they all envisioned the band to be. The first member to join was Josh, followed by Gian, and eventually Karter, after leaving his (now disbanded) punk rock group. Through the band, they were able to form a strong bond between the three of them, allowing for a greater creative process. Their unique connection evidently serves as the foundation of the group, cementing their place as an exceptional rock band. AM: When did you guys create the band? JC: I got an offer to join a different band, that was untitled. I basically tried for months to coerce Gian and Karter into joining the band, but they didn’t want to. That was in October of 2022 and I wrote “Flowers” in December, which is kinda what got these guys to join. AM: What was it specifically that made you guys want to join the band?

called “Flowers”. As soon as I heard it, like I almost fell in love with the guy! JC: Almost? ALL: (laughs) AM: Would you guys say that the band brought you all closer together as friends? JC: Yeah, definitely. We knew he [Karter] was part of the other band and one night Karter texted me at three a.m. saying “We need to talk about the band tomorrow, it’s an in person talk.” And I stayed up the whole night, I thought he was gonna quit! KB: Personally, I slept like a baby that night. ALL: (laughs) JC: The next morning he comes up to me and says, “Guys... I’m leaving the other band. And I’m joining this one full time.”

GA: Well my reason, is kinda, just like “Why?” At the time, I had a girlfriend, and was scared that she might think I was like, a loser, if I joined a band with my friends! I had no idea how good of a writer Josh was until I heard this man! And he posted a song

“I joined, and I’ve never felt more welcomed into a group” -Gian Alvarez 14

Creative Visions From a musicality standpoint, the creative process of The Freshwater Boys is an art in itself. When asked about how they get inspiration for lyrics or tracks, each member answered differently, having their artistry come from distinct elements of their life. What the boys had in common was how earnestly they talked of their expressiveness as self-taught musicians. AM: Could you tell me more about where you each get inspiration from? GA: For me, it’s just me being a sad boy after a breakup. I had one breakup and I think one of the things was I wanted to create an album with Josh, and I love Tyler, the Creator. I wanted a conceptual album. In the end of my song I talk about this girl who after some time, in the end found someone who she really loved and cared about. Unlike me he does all the right things. That was the biggest inspiration, almost like a sorry and a frick you at the same time. JC: Sometimes it starts off as me thinking, ‘I want to write a song now’, and other times something just happens, and I’m just like ‘that’s it’. AM: Karter, so you make your own drum tracks, how do you come up with that? KB: My big inspiration for my music is Blink-182. I’m really into punk rock, so I usually listen to those [bands] all the time. It’s really weird, I’m self-taught, so right when I first listen to it I’ll hear what drums will sound good there. I’ll hear the pockets and dips in there, as well as what I should add onto that.

What‘s Next for The Freshwater Boys? As our interview came to a close, I asked the boys about their hopes for the future of the band. Their answer was one that perfectly encaptured the essence of The Freshwater Boys.

@freshwaterboysband

“I have no idea where we’re going, I just know that whatever happens, we’re gonna do it with full dedication” -Karter Bell listen here on socials!

None of them are quite sure where they are headed. But they do know that no matter what happens, they will be putting their full force into making it work. Just from our short thirty-minute interview, I could tell of the passion that each of the members holds for music. To love one’s craft as they do discloses much about their characters as committed individuals who value life and the experience it can turn into. The amount of dedication and respect Josh, Gian, and Karter have towards each other not only as bandmates, but also as friends is something of envy. The Freshwater Boys holds a special significance to each of them, having impacted their lives remarkably. One thing is for sure that we will be looking forward to the songs they put out and where their music journey will lead them.

EXPLORE NEW ARTISTS

THE MONOCHROME ARTWORKS OF ROBERT MAPPLETHORPE JAN. 2024

‘Self-Portrait’ (1980)

‘Blue Rose’ (1988)

In celebration of his recent birthday, Robert Mapplethorpe’s art is finally gaining recognition after years of being misunderstood. Creating pieces in his Manhattan apartment shared with punk icon Patti Smith, Mapplethorpe worked primarily in black and whites. His pieces are simple and usually ‘Lisa Lyon_4’ (1981) subject-focused. The artist would have been 77 this year.

Patti Smith for ‘Horses’ (1975)

The cover photography for Patti Smith’s debut album ‘Horses’ was done by Mapplethorpe in 1975, shot in his 5th avenue New York apartment. The two were artistic partners and together produced many works of poetry, photography, and music. Smith has discussed his individuality by expressing how “[Mapplethorpe] was presenting something new, something not seen or explored as he saw and 16 explored it” (Just Kids, 2010).

ARTISTS ON OUR CAMPUS ‘Bartender’ Khushi Sohal

‘Papa’ Laurelei Vasquez A charcoal piece by Vasquez (11th)

A very well detailed drawing by Sohal (10th) has complex layers which can be curiously observed by viewers.

‘Colors in a Circle’ Laurelei Vasquez Vasquez (11th) captures the artistic concepts centered around painting and music in ‘Colors in a Circle’. 17

‘Saint’ Arianna Gomez

A brilliantly detailed drawing by Gomez (10th)

I S L SUE A I C S O S

s ‘ S r a e l h a c r a y e T A Teacher’s salary has been a controversial discussion during these past years, regarding the fair treatment of teachers for the work they do in educating the future generation. Most of the greatest leaders in the world were taught by teachers in their education years, some even hold their teachers responsible for the success they acquired. So how can one of the most important and impressionable jobs receive such low compensation? Teachers, students, and many people have broken out in protests and riots due to the injustice they believe educators all around the world are facing. Just as of April of 2023, Assemblyman Al Muratsuchi proposed a California Bill that sets a 50% increase in teacher salary over the next 7 years. This bill has been proposed to mitigate the wage penalty that teachers in America experience. Debate on whether or not the bill will pass has been sparked, concerning California’s 22.5 billion dollar budget deficit in the upcoming year. The matter of teacher’s pay is essential to what is to become of America’s education.

What Are RB’s Student’s and Staff’s Thoughts? Teachers This problem has been active in many of our beloved teachers and staff’s lives, here at Rancho Bernardo High School. Although many can form an opinion on the salaries of educators, we decided to see what one admired teacher has to say about teachers' salaries and whether a change is needed. Mr.Brammer, an AVID and English teacher as well as a water polo coach on campus for about 5 years, shares his history in educating, and thoughts on teachers' salaries. When asking him whether he thinks an increase in a teacher’s salary must be contemplated, he responds with, “I do think there should be an increase of 10% on salaries... teachers have countless hours outside of the classroom that should be considered”. Although Mr. Brammer has been teaching at RB for half a decade, his beginning salary and current salary have in fact changed, but did it ever negatively impact him? Mr. Brammer then reveals his story, “Early on yes, it did negatively impact me, I had to work another job to help support my family”. This teacher’s opinions and experience are very common among the educating world. It is now time to give some of the most important people in our society a higher paying salary that they no doubt deserve.

Students Though it may not affect them personally, a few students at RBHS have something to say about the low salaries of teachers. Allegra Tea, a freshman here at RB states, “I think they should receive more for what they do because they’re teaching the future generations.” She goes on to say that her math teacher, James Pinato, puts in more effort to make class interesting and fun than he is being paid. 19

MUSIC OF 2023 Music has long been a form of artistic expression ranging throughout countless genres and time periods. A constantly evolving and broadening art form, music is used to convey messages and emotions that we often have trouble communicating ourselves. The beauty of music is its ability to be interpreted and shared. Just one piece of music can mean so many different things. Millions of new songs and albums are released each year, further increasing all that there is to share. The students of Rancho Bernardo High School were asked to choose one favorite song and album released in 2023. The answers further confirmed the vastness of music, some responses being shared by multiple students while others being unique. Highlighted below are some of the best released songs and albums of 2023 according to RBHS students.

Song of 2023 ------------------------Among many responses, the song “My Love Mine All Mine” by Mitski proved to be a recurring favorite. Japanese-American artist, Mitski, released her seventh studio album The Land Is Inhospitable and So Are We with 11 tracks in September of 2023. Despite not having much promotion before its release, the album was well received by longtime fans and caught the attention of many new listeners. Notably, the song “My Love Mine All Mine” was by far the most popular from the album, both nationally and globally. In an interview with GENIUS, Mitski touches on the existentialism of the lyrics, explaining how the first verse was written about her realization that the moon is eternal and we are only temporary. The lyrics “Moon, tell me if I could/Send up my heart to you?/So, when I die, which I must do/Could it shine down here with you?” convey Mitski’s love for life and people that she wishes she could eternalize beyond her own existence. Overall, Mitski wrote the song about learning that despite all that is temporary and changing in one's life, you always have your love for the world that is truly your own. While many listeners do interpret the song in this way, others may also apply it to their love for specific people in their lives, as opposed to Mitski’s worldly point of view. The ability of Mitski’s songs to be personalized while still following her overall message emphasizes her skill as a songwriter, allowing for a wider fanbase. Thanks to this, “My Love Mine All Mine” made it to top charts around the world and as a favorite among RBHS students.

Albums of 2023 -----------------In a poll given to students regarding their favorite album that came out in 2023, the winners, which tied, were 1989 (Taylor’s Version) by Taylor Swift and GUTS by Olivia Rodrigo. Taylor Swift, on her plan to re-record her first six albums to become her own, released her fourth re-record, 1989 (Taylor’s Version), with five new “From The Vault” tracks. With an abundance of positive feedback, most people can agree that this album gave them hints of nostalgia while still being able to celebrate the new spin Swift put in the new and old tracks. Many people, when first hearing the album, felt it sounded similar to her tenth album, Midnights, which was a reflection of the absence of its original producers of 1989. Olivia Rodrigo’s sophomore album, GUTS, is a reflection of her transitional period of leaving her teenage years and becoming an adult. In the album, which consists of twelve tracks, one can find fun, energetic, and upbeat songs while still finding lower-key songs that still hit the emotional side of what many love about Rodrigo’s music. Following her debut album SOUR, many fans were skeptical if she could pull off another top-charting album, but as we know now, Rodrigo effectively captivated her fans once again.

Student Voices ----------------------

Music is a unique way to express interest, taste, and style, and Rancho Bernardo High School’s students found 2023’s music to highlight as well as heighten their love for music. The song “My Love Mine All Mine'' by Mitski was appreciated by Sophia for it “softness” and the ability that “people can get different meanings from it.” Sophia also enjoyed the album Guts by Olivia Rodrigo because of the “the upbeat” aspect, and feels “the lyrics are so fun.” The album Hackney Diamonds by The Rolling Stones, Ella writes “is a tribute to the band’s past albums…they connect past techniques and sounds created in their past albums, which gives Hackney Diamonds a nostalgic vibe as well as a modern one.” “Say Don’t Go (Taylor’s Version) [From The Vault]” by Taylor Swift is on the album 1989 (Taylor’s Version), and Brooke writes that the song is relatable and it makes her feel heard. The album Bewitched by Laufey is home to the song “California and Me” which Autumn enjoys because “the piano is so relaxing” and would recommend it to others who also enjoy jazz music. Students also mentioned additional songs and albums to be their favorites of 2023 such as “Lifetime” by Faye Webster, Good Riddance by Gracie Abrams, and Did You Know That There’s a Tunnel Under Ocean Boulevard and “Paris, Texas” by Lana Del Rey.

LITERATURE

By: Saman Ali, Mariana Reyes

Why do we love the idea of “starcrossed lovers”?

ROMANCE CLASSICS BIOGRAPHY

RANCHO BERNARDO’S FAVORITE BOOK GENRES 22

LITERATURE “Whatever our souls are made of, his and mine are the same.” These revolutionary words were stated by Emily Brontë in her novel centered around the star-crossed lovers Heathcliff and Catherine Earnshaw. But what is it that makes this quote so iconic? Since the beginning of time, humans have looked for their one sole purpose in life. Their true reason for living. We asked students from RB to reflect on their favorite book genres and the consensus was deafening. Although it could be considered that our survey had certain biases, we came down to the conclusion that romance reigns supreme in literature. Here are some books that we think readers who are consumed by the concept of “star-crossed lovers” would enjoy reading...

Wuthering Heights by Emily Brontë Brontë’s Wuthering Heights surveys the course of the passionate yet doomed relationship between aloof Heathcliff and the impassioned Catherine Earnshaw. Brontë incorporates elements of vengeance and atonement in her gothic novel that exposes humanity and its nature with its vulnerability and raw portrayal. Brontë’s masterpiece redefines what love is and is not through the star-crossed lovers.

Romeo and Juliet by William Shakespeare Doomed, yet destined lovers Romeo and Juliet have seemingly found their true purpose in one another. They claim their pure love conquers all and nothing shall interfere, including the hatred their families have for each other. Death and sacrifice are needed in order to establish peace between the opposing families. William Shakespeare uses complex language and meaningful descriptions to convey the adoration and conflict surrounding the star-crossed lovers. 23

A 20TH CENTURY RENAISSANCE POP CULTURE

The Rolling Stones in 2023 (above) and 1967 (left)

2023 was a year for many things: high inflation, the summer of Barbenheimer, and yet another Hollywood writer’s strike. One aspect of this year that only the record labels could predict: a rare Reunion-virus spreading itself amongst only the most iconic rock and pop bands.

4 BANDS, 4 NEW ALBUMS

*NSYNC in 2023 and 1996 (below)

Summer had ended, and everyone was still in a cinema-frenzy. With so many blockbusters hitting theaters in July, changes in the music business were not on the public’s radar for Fall. And then The Stones logged into Instagram. It all started with Mick Jagger and Keith Richard’s decision, after 20 years of Spotify silence, to start writing again. And this time, the songs were to be recorded. ‘Hackney Diamonds’ was released on October 20th. On that same day, across

the Atlantic Ocean, punk band Blink-182 released a long awaited album, ‘One More Time,” their first since 2003. Soon after came *NSYNC, with their pop single ‘Better Place,’ put together for the ‘Trolls’ movie. *NSYNC last released music in 2001. By the end of October music fans were thinking, “This is it, right?” “What other band could possibly reunite this year?” Some imagined The Smiths. Others hopelessly speculated One Direction. No would have ever imagined what was to come for music on November 2nd, 2023.

A MODERN TWIST

The Beatles released a song on November 2nd called ‘Now and Then.’ According to Paul McCartney and Ringo Starr, the only living members of the band, this song was previously recorded by John Lennon in 1977, in his New York home at The Dakota. Some believe that the newly remastered memo is purely Lennon’s vocals, while others believe that AI was used to revive his sound. McCartney, Starr, and Beatles guitarist George Harrison attempted to create this track in the late 90s, though were unable to fully detach Lennon’s vocals from the piano which he had been playing within the voice note. All three recorded their pieces, and now that George is dead as well, the two remaining decided to finally fix up the track correctly and release it in their memory.

SO, WHY NOW?

Blink-182 in 2023 (right) and 1999 (above)

The choices for all of these bands to make regarding writing and producing new music for the first time in 20+ years, all released within the same few weeks, is puzzling. For artists so iconic and inspirational to every modern artist of today, it can often be hard to release new music successfully. Maybe these bands want to release something of their own again, before AI takes over the music business. Maybe their record labels instructed that they do so in order to stay relevant. Whatever it may be, it is no coincidence that a group of such impactful musicians of their respected genres all decided to reunite; although it is a blessing.

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CREDITS

ISSUE #3

WHO'S CONTRIBUTED: VOICES MAGAZINE ISSUE #2 Head of Photography: Madeline Oakley Head of Reporting: Kalilah Rothstein Head of Interviewing: Saman Ali Heads of Advertising: Emily Silvernail and Paige Miodek Orchestra Highlight page 3, 4

Social Issue page 18, 19

Ella P

Kalilah R, Aurora-Marie M, Sophia P, Julia R,

Fashion page 5, 6

Carina G Music page 20, 21

Elle S, Mars P, Madeline O Entertainment page 7, 8 Allegra T, Geena N, Saman A, Charlie A Theater Highlight page 9, 10

Ellie S, Rylee H, Kale S Literature page 22, 23 Mariana R, Saman A Head Editors: Ella Palmer, Sameen Hasan

Ella P Art & Pop Culture page 16, 17, 24

Cover/Interviews Aurora-Marie M,

Ella P

About Voices Magazine -

Generous Sponsors: Soo Kim

Cathy and Yukon Palmer

Julianne Howes

Connie and Frank Ficano

Alyssa Peccatiello

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Special thanks to Ding Tea Rancho Bernardo for their generous fundraising and amazing drinks! Check them out at 12125 Alta Carmel Ct we thank you all so so much for your help in making Voices Magazine Issue #3 possible!

Madeline O, Mars P

Voices Magazine was created to include more representation of differentiating student opinions in written media. We meet in room 501 every Thursday at lunch, and we would love to have you. instagram: @rbhsmag email: rbhsvoices@gmail.com web: rbhsvoices.carrd.co Thank you to everyone who has continuously supported us. - Voices Magazine President and Founder, Ella Palmer

VOL 3

JANUARY EDITION

shot by Madeline Oakley/Voices Magazine

2024