The Senior Soundtrack

For Moreau Catholic’s seniors, the final soundtrack is already beginning to take shape. From songs playing across the dance floor at Capurro Plaza during the Welcome Back Dance to music blasting from the stands at the Opening Rally, certain songs will forever be tied to the memories of the Class of ’27’s final year. 

With more dances, games, and assemblies to come, many students can begin attaching personal meaning to the music surrounding them as they build the atmosphere and tension of this lasting school year. For some seniors, these songs represent friendship or the bittersweet feeling of navigating the way to graduation. 

So, what song is defining this year so far? 

For senior and student leader Yazlín Rodrigues, there’s one song that carries personal meaning. Rodrigues chose “I Lived” by the Glee Cast, explaining how the song reminds her of the friendships she has remained dedicated to throughout high school, coping with the fact that this era is coming to an end. 

“‘I Lived,’ by the Glee Cast– whenever I hear this song, I get emotional about the friends that I’m leaving.” 

Senior Ivanka Menezes, an active member of the Student Senate and theater, chose “Memories” by Beabadoobee. Menezes connected the song to the complicated emotions that arise when reminiscing on meaningful experiences. 

“‘Memories’ by Beabadoobee, because it’s about holding onto comforting memories and ideas that should bring joy, but instead cause sadness because those moments cannot last forever.” 

Menezes’ song choice reflects the tension approaching her final year of high school: memories can be a source of comfort while also serving as a reminder that special moments cannot last forever. Like Rodrigues’ choice, her song connects music to the ambivalence of looking back at the past and moving forward – capturing excitement in one moment and nostalgia in another. Both students are saddened that the many relationships and experiences that have shaped high school will eventually become a thing of the past. 

Although both Ivanka and Yazlín chose different songs, both preferences unite music with their love for the Mariner community and the impact felt as a student. This goes to show that music transcends the background noise at a school event, becoming an ingrained remembrance of specific moments, people, and stages of life. Although students may interpret individual songs differently, the occasions where those songs are played are designed to bring the Moreau community together. Dances, for instance, play an important role in cultivating comfort and expanding relationships among students– giving students opportunities to come together outside of a typical classroom setting

With the school year still in its opening weeks, the soundtrack is far from finished, with more functions to come. Each event has the potential to become a staple of the soundtrack of their final year. For now, Mariners continue to witness their last year through their own senior soundtrack.